Merc Block Toast?

Hello,

I picked up a couple of field flatheads and one is a merc. Would have possibly been a great block but the previous owner decided to remove the head on the left side and leave it open in the weather..for years. I tore it down some and discovered the crank is standard/standard and bearings dated 8 51. The head gasket on the right side is stamped Mercury. I think it was a low mileage engine until this guy chunked it in the field. My question does the deck look too bad to use? Some cylinders are rusty but the bore is standard. I am not sure if this link shows the other pictures i took, if it does they are of a different engine (59 block). Thanks!
http://picasaweb.google.com/joptaylo/Flatheads/photo#5201881425719270994

 

Bore should not be a problem...you can bore this a LOT if you have to.
On deck--I would first do an engine tour with flashlight and wire brush, hunting for visible cracks. If you don't find any terminal disasters, find a machinest and do an exploratory cut on deck...you want to sneak up on least possible cut, not cut to a number, as you don't have much deck to spare. I would cut to a point that gives substantial contact but not worry about getting to the bottom of every pit...remove the least that will give secure contact only.

 

What's wrong with the 59AB block? Merc crank will fit in it to. I just built a 4 in by 3 5/16 L block with my 348-409 pump kit, 2 94s and a GMCBUBBA chevy distributor, and it really runs great!

 

Thanks for the info, that is what I will try to do. I really hope to save it. Krylon32 - I am building a motor for my father out of either a cracked 8ba block (valve to cylinder) or the Merc block. The 59AB is in unknown condition, but if it is good it will be mine for a future project! I like the integrated bellhousing and distributor. Some of the parts seem to be higher for the 59AB anyway and I think he is already a little shocked at the cost for the 8BA/8CM. Then again maybe there isn't as much difference in cost as I think, this is my first time dealing with Flatheads. Thanks guys, I appreciate the help.