Abstract: A load block having a body, a sheave rotatably positioned within the body, and a hook having a shank received within the body and having a portion positioned in a generally air-tight volume within the body. The body includes a first side plate, a second side plate in generally parallel relationship to the first side plate, and a crossblock affixed to and extending between the first and second side plates. The air-tight volume is formed within the crossblock. The crossblock includes a cover which is affixed to a top surface of the crossblock and is in generally liquid-tight relationship to the crossblock. A liquid fills the volume of the crossblock so as to extend around a portion of the shank. The cover has a check valve positioned on a surface for allowing air to pass from the volume and for preventing air from passing into the volume. The sheave includes an inner race around a bearing assembly adjacent to a shaft formed in the body. A pair of dead-eyes are positioned on opposite sides of the body.