Hole in the block

[IdahoKidd]

For those aware of my bad luck, an update on the engine block. I haven't pulled it apart yet but there is a hole about 2 inches by three inches long just behind the driver side motor mount. I have a certified welder friend who looked at it and didn't even blink when he said he could fix it. He'd weld a plate in it, epoxy the inside and said it would go forever. Assuming the cylinder is ok, here's the question: Because it is a 43K mile car, does it make any difference at all if I just replace the entire engine, which means I no longer have matching numbers, or do I repair the block to keep the matching numbers? Ultimately, does anyone really care on a 42 year old car?

One school of thought is once I replace the engine, I can replace all the little things that need replaced that will make it an awesome daily driver. It currently has the oem glass, headlights, tail lights, seats with loose stitching, etc. It is not a concourse car. But it is original except for the radiator hoses and two clamps and is in pretty nice condition (nice being relative to who is looking at it I have discovered). Do I replace all of that stuff and enjoy the car, maybe sell it because I have two exactly alike, or let someone else make that decision. Obviously I would disclose the block repair, which will probably scare off the purist anyway.

Any thoughts?

[hr369]

weld in a plate? you should bevel it back and use as many passes

as it needs to fill in the hole. no patch plate or sealer required.

if its done like this, you wont even know its been repaired.

its very important to use cas iron welding rods and to preheat the

iron before welding.

welding rods can be bought here 1/2 lb 77 Electrode 3/32"

[Captain_Zeros]

I'd just replace the block, I doubt it would hurt the value appreciably.