Closed passages in head

[Walter Pearson]

There are circular coolant passageways in the block and corresponding holes in the head gaskets, but in four places, there are slisght depressions - but no corresponding holes in the head. Is this the normal condition? I can understand the two located under the thermostat, but not sure why the others are blocked. The corner of the head and block near #1 is where excessive heat build-up would occur.

[Don Moyer]

Walter,

As near as I can understand your description, the holes in the block to which you're referring are a carry over from early model engines which had a slightly different flow in the cooling system. In converting to the late model engine, Universal felt that those passage ways were not necessary.

The depressions that you see in these locations on the lower surface of the head are probably caused by corrosion as the water in the block came in contact with the head.

Regards,

Don