225 heads, 231 heads

Rebuilding my 225 OF and found a slight defect in the intake ports (2) casting. (Looks like a worm tunnel in wood) My engine rebuilder found this while polishing and is reluctant to use. Any way, since then, purchased 231 heads. They aren't a perfect match on the water jackets and require some machining. But found a small (3/16") hole in the water jacket near the front of the block. This does not line up with the cylinder head to be drilled out. Can this be welded shut in the block and still function properly. Searched for information but only found mention of the hole in the 225 head and not in the 231 heads. Want to use the 231's for the larger intake and exhaust ports.

By the way, this forum is priceless for information.

 

In theory I think it is possible but I haven't heard anyone here doin it yet (is there?). Water jackets would need modification and that hole, I have no idea. Make sure your 231 heads are 1979 or newer for better performance.

You may be the guinea pig on this one. Also, I'm pretty sure your odd-fire intake will give you even more headaches on the EF heads. Where are you located? There are several odd-fire heads floating around in people's garages.

 

Check that 3/16" hole, the 225 block has a front or rear oil hole that feeds the rocker arm shafts that are not present on 231 engines as they oil thru the pushrods instead of the shafts. Intake casting holes can also be filled with epoxy or brazed closed.

 

Is this the one? ("V-6 Performance" by Pat Ganahl)

 

Live in Carbondale, Colorado. Have that book by Ganahl. Will have to reread again.

Wanted to use the 231 head because of the larger ports and better alignment and fit to the P.O. headers.

Thanx again for the help. Will update as we go along.