Antifreeze leak on 61

[John H.]

I have an antifreeze leak between the front engine mount crossbrace and the block on my 1961 Corvette. According to my service guide there should be a gasket or gaskets between the crossbrace and the block but I don't find them in my parts books. Do I use 4 water pump gaskets two under the crossbrace and two under the water pump or is there special gasket for the block to crossbrace joint? Thanks for the help.

[Charlie P.]

Re: Antifreeze leak on 61

I used four of the same standard water pump gaskets, one on each side of the crossbrace of course. Seems to be fine.

[Mike E.]

Re: Antifreeze leak on 61

When you have it apart, check the integrity of the cross race. They often are rust-pitted, and leaking results. Also, it's difficult to get the brace and all four gaskets lined up to go back together--cut the heads off a couple of extra 3/8 bolts , use them as guide pins, and then when you have two regular bolts in and securing it all, remove the guide pins and replace with correct bolts.

[John F.]

Re: Antifreeze leak on 61

You also need to jack the motor a little to take the tension off the mount when removing the water pump. Build a little cradle with a 2x6.

[John F.]

Re: Antifreeze leak on 61

Oops! Forgot the picture of the cradle.

[Bruce B.]

Re: Antifreeze leak on 61

When replacing the gaskets coat all surfaces with Permatex #2 and tighten per specs.

Do not use silicone sealer or you will have to repeat the job.

[John H.]

Re: Antifreeze leak on 61

Thanks everyone for your insites this doesn't look too difficult, just a lot of stuff to unhook and hook back up.

[John H.]

Re: Antifreeze leak on 61

John, I am not sure how to place this cradle. I assume it would support the oil pan to block flange at the front of the engine with open end facing the rear of the car?

[Bruce B.]

Re: Antifreeze leak on 61

Correct, That is how the brace works.

Bruce B