I had my '59 283 block bored to 4.00". The block had 2 sleeves prior to boring... machinist said it must have been done because of scoring because he didn't see any cracks when he re-sleeved them. The blocks also been clearanced for a stroker crank.

Anyways, I got a call this morning saying that the block needed decked. The machinist insisted that he didn't think there was anyway he could get a head gasket to seal. He didn't seem to think there was any chance a thicker head gasket could be used to compensate rather than decking. I don't like the news, but I suspect he's probably right.

He says he can do the decking without taking out the block stampings. Does this sound possible? Any thoughts on this would be appreciated. TIA

I do know it is possible, but I don't know how and I personally haven't had it done though.

I'm not positive but I think the decking operation is always required when sleeves are installed.

Thanks Taylor, Bob. Bob, do you think the block can be properly decked without the stamped letters/numbers being taken off? Thanks again, Wes

Wes,
If your guy is a good machinist, he should be able to stop the milling machine right at the front of the deck before it gets to the numbers. Depends on the type of milling equipment you have. Ours makes it very easy to do.
It is not always neccessary to deck the block when installing a sleeve.

just restamp the numbers

Thanks for the reply Bill, I was hoping you'd chime in. He has a good reputation and runs a clean shop. I've taken his advice on everything else so far, I'm just a little nervous about taking the numbers off. I'll call him tomorrow morning and tell him to go ahead and deck it. Jim, re-stamping isn't an option.

Thanks again to all who replied. Wes