Expert: Roger J.M. Warrington - 3/22/2007

Question
I just installed a rebuilt 350 small block in my 72 blazer. I have a coolant leak that appears to be coming from the passenger side engine mount. Is this possible? Does the mounting bolts extend into the coolant chambers?The freeze plug behind the mount appears to be dry.

Answer
Joey;
 HI - well as long as you used the proper size bolt on the mount , and I would have used some sealant on every bolt when doing so, it is possible that a bolt-if long enough- could go into the water jacket area,or if it is striped- but I do not think you would have used a 2 or 3 inch bolt. I wonder if it is a freeze out plug. I would get a pressure tester and hook it up and put apx. 12 lbs. of p.s.i. into the cooling system and look for the leak. you can remove the bolt or bolts from the motor mount and see if it is coming from there. than replace with shorter bolts and load them up with sealant. and check the freeze out plug. if you just paid for that motor and if you have trouble I would tell them and get a replacement a.s.a.p.. but check the bolt holes and the freeze out plug. use a pressure tester kit. this way the water will not be hot. it will show you all leaks..also to be on the safe side I would check all of the cylds. for water.