cracked block

[smootz]

New to the site, looking for advise. 2017 Transconnect with 2.5 engine. Sprouted a water leak under the upper water inlet housing. Mechanic replaced water pump and plastic housing before discovering a small hairline crack in the block. Unsure how this could happen because motor was shut off immediately when temp warning showed. Mechanic broke a flange off the old pump while removing but says unrelated (suspicious to me). I own a machine and fab shop and am very proficient with a tig welder. If I can access the front of the motor I may be able to repair. If not it will require pulling and possibly replacing the engine (Bummer!) My question is: Would it be possible to remove the front sheet metal and core support  for access? Thanks for any info. 

[G B L]

Just watched a video of a water pump change on the 2.5.  The person doing the change broke the water pump while removing it, too much in a hurry, the way it was removed could crack the cover if you are not careful.  Where is the  crack located  hopefully not to near the timing cover.  The core support will come out of there .

How bad is the leak I might try  Barr's block sealer first you might be lucky. It might be time for a different Mechanic.

[smootz]

I think the only mechanic I can trust is myself. Not sure if removing the front end is a waste of time. I am looking now to see if it may be better to just drop the engine so I can do a good repair. I have searched high and low for an engine removal procedure or a manual that details it. So far, no luck.