I have a 53 v8 flatty in a f-350 that has probably been sitting for 25 yrs. It ran when parked (LOL) any way does any one know how to determine if the block is not cracked without tearing it down or even having it running. I don't know if it is possible but thought I would ask I would like to restore the engine lastly running or not. Thx

 

You can pressurize the cooling system and see if it holds pressure. Of course this will not identify where the leak is but it will tell you if the cooling system is tight. Pull the spark plugs out and you might be able to see/hear coolant leaking into the cylinder. A good radiator shop will have a tool for this.

 

If the cooling system has been full of coolant all these years, and the engine is not stuck, its not cracked between the valves.

 

if coolant system is full, oil level correct, if coolan seeping into oil will be milky colour and will be higher 9if oil not leaking out)