Hole in front of Engine block

[alundsberg]

Hi All,

I have a 31 Ford p/u. Not show worthy at all and really just used for occasional fun so I hate to invest in a new engine when it ran great and was recently checked over and was in great condition internally. About 10 years I noticed a crack so I put some JB weld on it. Worked fine until now. I pulled the radiator and front end off and the old weld just peeled off. I now have what looks like a wide long hole (similar to a coin slot on a vending machine). There is no mixing of oil and antifreeze so luckily the hole is just exterior and affecting the water jacket.

I thought about having it welded but I don't have the capability to pull the engine and take it anywhere. Has anyone had any success with using JB Weld or other epoxies for a hole like this? I've heard of others using Dexcon and Belzona 1111 but they are pricey and wondering if any better than JB? Or maybe I'm beyond the capability of epoxies at this point? Any suggestions or recommendations? Much appreciated.

https://imgur.com/CoOki79