Re: Are cylinder bore sleeves reliable in Y Blocks?
I have sleeved many blocks, from Model T's to a 427 FE (very thin walls) and never had a problem. If done properly, the sleeved hole will be stronger than the original cylinder. Compared to a 289/302 a Y block has thick walls and is an easy job.
It is getting hard to find a machinist that knows how to do it properly. I 've seen many blocks done improperly, they were bored all the way thru instead of leaving a step at the bottom. By leaving the step, there is no chance of the sleeve moving. Also, if it is fit properly, there will be no chance of a coolant leak if the original hole was cracked into the water jacket.
The negative side to this today is the cost. Forty years ago I could sleeve all 8 holes in a flathead for what it'll probably cost do do 1 hole today
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