2.7L woes, 1989 944

[FrontEngineWaterCooled]

I have a 1989 2.7L 944 bone stock that has a curious disorder. There is a "burn-through" in the top of the #4 cylinder wall. Got the car this way. However, I am seeking a new block for the car and am I correct in assuming any 2.7 or 3.0 944, 944S2, 968 block should work?

The head is A-OK fine. (and rather rare, I am led to understand)

I understand the bore for the 2.7 to be 104mm vs. 100 for the 2.5. I also understand that the 944S2 is a 3L because of a different crankshaft(ie: stroked) while the stock 2.7 had the same crank as the 2.5 with the larger pistons.

Thus, I am ASSUMING.....(uh-oh) that a bare block from 1989/90/91 etc should satisfy my needs as concerns using my existing parts for engine build-up.

Is this correct? I have looked all over and it seems to be the case but thought I'd run it by some of you before making a decision to buy the bare block.

I may have found one but won't know until tomorrow.

Any input is most welcome.

Thanks

[FrontEngineWaterCooled]

Here's a photo for the curious:

[wvicary]

Interesting photo, any ideas as to what caused this failure?

[FrontEngineWaterCooled]

no

Edit: Yes.

After discussion with Ian at 944 Online, he suggested that it's a hot spot caused by a bad injector. Given the location of the hole, that seems to make sense. I've never encountered this phenomenon and although I didn't do it, I know I should take steps to avoid it.

New block is on the way and I will be busy for awhile accumulating the necessary rebuild parts: Rings, bearings, etc in order to properly do a rebuild so I don't have to go in and do it again in a few month's time.

Thanks to everyone who contributed.

Edited October 21, 2008 by FrontEngineWaterCooled