Hank- I had read about that weak point on the drivers side front hole, and should have looked closely as soon as we pulled the head. Thanks for reminding me. Unfortunately there is a large crack that extends into the water pump hole and both sides of head bolt hole. Here it is outlined with a sharpie:
So, this block is done. I'm going to get the crank and rods out anyways, as they may be useful. Going to have the head checked also. Looks like we'll be hunting up another 250, and now I have a much better idea of what to look for. I bet my grandfather will be up for engine hunting next Friday.
Here is my quick and dirty harmonic balancer puller made from a piece of plate I had lying around:
Drilled three holes with clearance for 3/8 bolts, center hole tapped and drilled 1/2-13. Put grease in the centring cone of the crank and put a ball bearing so the center doesn't get buggered when the 1/2-13 is tightened. Worked fine. To make the drill template just rub the grime on your fingers against a piece of paper or card held against the balancer.
Edit: Jay- Dish was .06 deep by calipers, didn't try to backfigure TDC. Let me know if you want depth mic measurement on dish.
