Hole in the Head

[McSlug]

I just bought a '97 XLT in immaculate condition for $800.

Only problem is it's got a pin hole in the rear of the left head.

The pic is not the offending item it is from a spare engine I have in the shed.

Any ideas on how to patch this up without pulling the engine or the head.
I'll swap engines if necessary but rather not if I don't have to.
Fix this and Its worth $6000 over here :australia

If I have to swap engines I may keep it and sell my '98. The '97 XLT is much nicer.

 

[my98nnj]

Is the hole in the oil passage or coolant passage?
Honestly, a head swap would be the correct way to fix it.

 

[Joe Dirt]

That's what I was thinking- and I think that's actually a '98- even better deal!

 

[McSlug]

definitely coolant the intake is off and I've seen it spout out.
If it's a case of pulling the head I'll prob swap engines.

 

[safn1949]

If it's just a pinhole and the surrounding area isn't weak,have it welded shut.Back in the day they would weld cracked blocks so I know it can be done.That is of course if you can access it to do so.

Also if you can access it and want to do the cheap way,drill and tap it and put a set screw in it with sealer on the threads.Sounds stupid but it works,it all depends if the casting is relatively solid except for the pinhole.

 

[blakshukvw]

Seriously. How the hell does this crap happen? What was Ford using to make heads? Recycled aluminum japanese carburetors or something.