[NC_PE12]

Hey Guys,

First time poster, long time lurker. I purchased my '13 XLT Ecoboost on Friday. Extremely happy with the purchase. I popped the hood today and couldn't help but notice the rough, spider-webbed finish on the block. Is this normal? I've never seen such a rough finish on any other engine block. Thanks for the help.

 

[Pinero61]

Is that the timing chain cover just below the valve covers?

 

[NC_PE12]

is that what it is? the picture was taken at the front left of the engine bay. but yes, those are the valve covers that you see above. am I only looking at some sort of casing? thanks for the help.

 

[OxfordFX4]

Probably to much work to grind or smooth the casting imperfections. I wouldn't worry about it.

 

[Pinero61]

is that what it is? the picture was taken at the front left of the engine bay. but yes, those are the valve covers that you see above. am I only looking at some sort of casing? thanks for the help.

Yeah, that should just be the timing chain cover. I've seen galvanizing do this when heated up, I wouldn't worry about it.

 

[NC_PE12]

just weird how smooth that countersunk hole is to the right.

 

[Pinero61]

just weird how smooth that countersunk hole is to the right.

It may have gotten a better coating than the flat surfaces did during the dipping process.

 

[NC_PE12]

Thanks for the help guys. Looks like I'm not the only one with this issue. Seems to be normal based on this post I found: Ecoboost engine block cracks - Ford F150 Forum - Community of Ford Truck Fans

Anyone else's look like this?

 

[EPP]

It's totally normal, both of my ecoboosted vehicles block look like this and the spare engine I have at the shop.

 

[NC_PE12]

Thanks guys. I appreciate all the help. This is a great site. This is my first Ford Truck and I must say, I should've done this a long time ago.

 

[joemac]

Yes this condition is normal on the 3.5 aluminum casting process. That being said not all aluminum blocks are this unfinished. The rough casting surface is not indicative of any cracked block circumstances.

 

[Rip]

My motorcycle engine (ST1300 Honda) has the same finish (same with the ST1100). I was told that it is indicative of sand casting aluminum. It's supposed to be the best way to make aluminum block engines short of milling from billet (which would be obscenely expensive).

Please correct any errors I this info...