Quote:
The only way to figure out what you have is careful inspection & observation 
That's what I've been doing. I had to listen to his story, and make sense of it. I'm trying to help they guy since he needs the vehicle to work his construction/ home improvement business. He has helped me with my garage and other home related projects. He has even towed me to the track on occasion.
The heads show no outward signs of cracks. We used spot check by magnaflux. We also tried the spot check on that #4 cylinder wall.
It's so hard to get that motor out easy. I still have to check the deck surface of the block with the spot check. The internals of this engine are just cruddy, and coked. The truck worked hard daily. I also know the original owner of the truck and how it was taken care of. I'm surprised how bad this looks.
I'm certain the heads got lifted, but can't see any other signs of cracks other than that messed up #4 cylinder wall. The spot check is kind of useless on that section. At least I'm not sure how to interpret it with the blemished surface. It might hone out, but why if there is a crack in the block? The heads have to be warped, and perhaps the deck as well.
I wonder about bearings, bent rods, etc. The rotating assembly in the short block turns so easy. If the block is cracked I would like to have an idea where and just get on with it.
I know a reload with a good used 5.9 magnum would get him back in business. There is nothing on craigslist or kijiji locally. The worst part is we are working outside like shadetree mechanics with the leaves falling and colder weather coming.
Too many cars, too many parts, too little coin, too little space to work in, too little time left to make it all happen!
Update: down to one ride, still too many parts, a little more jingle in the pocket, gaining space, and it's going to happen this year!
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