>
>To:j.ettorre@utoronto.ca
>From:tmarcini@execpc.com (Tim Marciniak)
>Subject:Re: cracks in head (cylinder head, that is)
>
>>Woo-hoo! First post! Hi all!
>>
>>I'm wondering if anyone has had a problem with cracking in their
>>cylinder head or block. What were the symptoms and how did you locate it?
>>
>>Im doing a thesis at the University of Toronto in collaboration with
>>Volkswagen Canada Remanufacturing to test cylinder heads for leaks and
>>cracks.
>>
>>If you know the particulars of a test like this, technical details such
>>as mounting hardware or test process/design, that would really be
>>appreciated. Specifically, how was the apparatus mounted to the head/engine?
>>
>>--
>>Jason Ettorre
>>Mech 9T6+P
>
>Jason,
>
>I've been a shadetree mechanic for many years and during my teen years did
>my share of engine dismantling and rebuilding.  I curently pick and choose
>what I do to my cars now but due to family committments, job, etc I can't
>get out to the garage to do all that I would like.  Anyways my point in
>telling you all this is that I'm not a professional mechanic but I have
>done my share of mechanics.
>
>So here goes,
>
>Here are some approaches to checking and diagnosing cracks in cylinder
>heads and blocks:
>
>1.  Cylinder compression check
>2.  Do you have coolant in your oil or do you have oil in your coolant?
>3.  Professional Approaches include:
>    a)  Hydraulic pressure
>    b)  Magnetic inspection of ferrous parts
>    c)  Dye penetrant
>
>The professional approaches to checking for cracks all require dismantling
>and thorough cleaning of these parts prior to inspection.  I don't think
>there are any easy ways to check and locate cracks when the engine is in
>the vehicle, although maybe technology of today has an approach to this.
>
>Good Luck

Tim Marciniak                         tmarcini@execpc.com
90 Westy Multivan