1967 John Deere 5020 engine block crack

Bigdaddybwc · Jan 30, 2011

I am several thousand into a rebuild on this tractor and have found some small cracks between the cylinders in the block. It is hollow below the cracks to allow coolant to circulate around the cylinders. I am being told by some to complete the rebuild as the head, gaskets and seals will prevent any migration of coolant into the cylinders or oil. I tried to post pics but can't right now but can email pic's if I have an email address. I am hoping someone with knowledge on this can advise me as to continue or not or if there is a good fix.

Thanks,

Brad

MSM · Jan 30, 2011

Personally, I would replace the block.No sence putting it all back together and have to go back and redo it. With the cracks between the cylinders there is a good possibility that the liners may start to move,or you will end up with coolant in the combustion chambers. A good used block shouldn't be more than $500. Have it checked,cleaned and put new cam bearings in it.

HubbTrac · Jan 30, 2011

If the block is cracked, junk it. Coolant will leak into the cylinders from the top and you will have spent all that time and money for nothing.

B Woods · Jan 30, 2011

Where are you located ? I have a good block that has just been checked ,line bored and had new cam bearings installed . For sale $ 750 in tenn

tomstractorsandtoys · Jan 30, 2011

I have an early 4020 that is cracked top and bottom between all six cyclinders. We found this 18 years ago when we went to overhaul it. Not having money for a block at the time a friend said to put it back together. We used a locktite sealant from our IH dealer either a 505 or 515. We used plenty in the o-ring grooves at the bottom and also on top the block. He said if it runs two days it will last 20 years. Ten years ago we scored one piston due to a bad injecter, we pulled the bad cyclinder installed a new one with the same sealer and it still is holding. The tractor is used hard for tillage and silo filling. The locktite sealer says on the tube that it is designed to flex and it is a great product. I also know of two 3020's fixed the same way. But if you have the money buying a good block is a good idea gaskets and labor are alot more than they were years ago. At that time I had more time than money.

buickanddeere · Jan 30, 2011

If overheated or thermal shocked from adding cold
water to a hot engine. Which may have damaged the
block? There maybe damage to the head too?

Bigdaddybwc · Feb 1, 2011

Thanks for the replies. These are small (very small) cracks on the top of the block between the cylinders. I don"t think there is any way to weld them. It just makes me sick that I have invested so much just to find this. New tires and tubes, new hydraulic oil and filters, new fuel line parts, pto parts, etc, etc, etc....Still not sure what I am going to do. I am still trying to figure out how to add a picture for everyone to see.

Bigdaddybwc · Feb 1, 2011

In reference to my location, I am in St Louis, MO. I just don't know that I want to spend anymore on this tractor. It was to be used for a wild life project on my dad's farm and is actually more tractor than I need.

44 Diesel Tech · Feb 1, 2011

Those crackes are not a problem, I have seen many like that and are working fine.

tomstractorsandtoys · Feb 3, 2011

The head gasket seals on the liners not the block. Use the locktite sealer I recommended in other post on the cracks and you will be fine.

1967 John Deere 5020 engine block crack

Bigdaddybwc

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MSM

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HubbTrac

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B Woods

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tomstractorsandtoys

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buickanddeere

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Bigdaddybwc

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Bigdaddybwc

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44 Diesel Tech

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tomstractorsandtoys

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