Welding cast Iron heads

[Steve R]

Gents,
Are there any welders out there who have an opinion on the best method of crack repair on cast iron heads? I have done some reading on Fusion, powder, stick, and furnace methods. Seems to me like there is a lot of B.S. and snake oil salesmanship when it comes to this subject.
Steve

[bigmike]

Steve:
I bought some rods from a welding supply salesman who demonstrated the repair of a cast iron exhaust manifold. Seemed to work rather well, but I still think 'snake oil'.
But my welder friends recommend silicone-bronze with a TIG torch. Preheat to about 500 degrees F, after v-ing out the crack. Then cool very slowly, with some insulation over it, like asbestos blankets. Should take about 24 hrs to cool.
You might also try Northwest Engine rebuilders.
If push comes to shove, I have a set of 428 CJ heads that can be had for cheap.
Big Mike

[bigmike]

PS :
I agree with you about the radial engines
BigMike

[strictlypersonl]

Instead of doing it yourself, I suggest that you ask a heavy-equipment engine rebuilder for a recommendation. There's nothing like a lot of experience when you are attempting such a touchy process.