can I block this hole??
 

Hi All

I have an L31 vortec block which I intend to fit with electric water pump.

Trouble is, theres a hole directly below the mounting bolt for the WP which my electric wont cover.

Attachment 331823

It is the 10mm hole directly below the bolt hole.
It is covered by the standard waterpump.
What is this hole for? It is in the water jacket.
Can it be safely blocked off


Cheers Geoff

Re: can I block this hole??
 

that hole is for a bit of circulation when the thermostat is closed. I wouldn't block it off.

Re: can I block this hole??
 

Hi Rusty

I wont be running a thermostat. My electric WP pulses when engine is cold to allow faster warmup.
Manufacturer recommends no thermo

Re: can I block this hole??
 

My guess is your electric water pump won't even cover that port (at least not completely). If that's the case, you MUST plug it, otherwise water will come OUT of it.

Re: can I block this hole??
 

Yeah damon, that's correct. I just wanted to ensure that that hole wasn't vital before I plugged it.

If its just a by-pass for the thermostat that's ok I will plug it

Re: can I block this hole??
 

I believe that hole does not go to coolant like a non vortec sbc does. Pretty sure its a dead end and you dont need to plug it.

Re: can I block this hole??
 

Simple test is blow into it with an air gun. If the air comes back at you it goes nowhere. If the air bleeds out somewhere then it goes into the coolant passages and must be plugged for your application.