I have the 53 block and I don't worry about it. Just don't get on it when it's cold.

 

are there mexican blocks in the 98.5 24v? i looked on driver and passanger side of the block...all i found was small 1/2 inch letters n numbers 18LTD is what was posted on the side of the block

 

Yep there are my 98.5 has a 55 on it its on both the driver and passenger sides close to the oil pans. The one on the driver is near the front of the engine.

 

I've looked all over the block and all I can find is a 1" letter "A" stamped on the front of the block on the passengers side above the oil pan. any thoughts?

 

My 53 has never given me problems with over 300k on it. Not worried about it, just make sure I dont run it hard when its cold, good practice if you have a 53 or not.

 

hate to break it to you, but 55 blocks and storm blocks are also known for cracking in the same spot as the 53 block.

check the drivers side above the oil pan as well. they aren't always stamped. mine is raised numbering cast right into the block.


^^this...

btw I have well over 500hp with my 53 block. no cracks and not worried about it.

239k on the clock as well and up until I got it, the truck has towed heavy goose neck trailers for most of its life...since I got it, I more than doubled it's power output to the wheels...almost tripled it... been running compound twins for the last 3 years now.

 

This may not be a big deal but I just traded my 92 for a 99 that the owner was told it is not a 53 block and I checked and he was wrong. I found the sticky at the top of this sections page about 53s and it had all the info I could want and more. He actually also found someone that has a 53 block 12 valve from early 98. If you have some questions it appears he has done alot of research and it is alot of good info. Just sayin

 

I have a 53 block with 208k. It's survived lots of Montana winters and I rarely let it warm up for more than a few minutes. Get in it and drive it. I recommend holding a hot cup of coffee without a lid. It's a sure fire method at keeping your speed in check.