[Robert C.]

Yes we are plugging the out board holes. The casting holes have to be where they are now. We are no longer drilling them for the gaskets, because the bigger bores sizes make the gasket water holes to close to the bores. So until we have a gasket to fit the best head out there we are plugging holes or not drilling any. It is easier for you to drill then plug.

Now the upper holes that are cast are placed in a good location. We are not drill the three 5/16 water holes. You will have to drill them too. They will be a breeze to plug if needed. Again the head that is use will determine where to drill. We did this because the big horse power users ask us to do this. It saves a lot of their time and money if we did it.

Freeze plugs are now threaded holes. We are supplying them with the blocks. We added about 1/16 to each side of the main webs to completely cover the steel main caps. This adds even more strength to the main area.

About the metal: We are using the highest grade of Cast Iron that has the best strength and cylinder to ring sealing capabilities. To hard of casting material will cause early ring ware. There is a fine balance as to what you can use.

Inspection of the production blocks is running longer because we had to get special electric NDT (None Destructive Testing) equipment made to check the wall thickness. Because of the high grade of casting material that we use, a 5MHz (Megahertz) transducer will not measure the right thickness. We will not send out blocks until we are sure that we have the best block that can be made period. We are doing what you asked us to do, Do it right or don't do it at all.

Bob C. / Frank G.

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