engine block codes

[karolscali]

i bet this has been asked before, i have noticed on some cali specials that the serial number on the block match the vin number of the car? question how do you find out if this is the original block for the car, mind has the 8r with 6 numbers, what i have found that ford used a consecutive unit number, system reguardless of model, this does not tell me if this the original block or if it is a 289 or 302? is there a to check or find out?

 

[robert campbell]

The stamp on the block is an abbreviated VIN number. My car was 8R01J123143. The block is 8R123143. On the ledge of the back of the block on the left hand side, just behind the intake manifold gasket. The same 8R123143 is also on the automatic on the top, at the back of the main case just forward of where the tailhousing bolts on. On a 4 speed it is usually on the bottom on the main case, just forward of where the tailhousing bolts on.

If the number on the dash matches the number on the block it should the original engine for that car. the VIN number is on the right hand side of the dash visible form outside the car. Also on the driver door tag, but many times that one may be gone.

Rob

 

[Doug]

Thanks - I am looking at a car right now and this information is really helpful.

 

[68sunlitgold]

karolscali & Doug,
this link shows my VIN # for my car and you can see the VIN on the engine block.

Doug

http://www.californiaspecial.com/forums/vbpicgallery.php?do=big&p=163

 

[robert campbell]

I forgot to mention if you have the automatic, that stamping is very hard to see in the car. Normally covered in grease and dirt. You will need to jack the car up and use a mirror to find it. The four speed stamping is very easy. right on the bottom!!

Rob

 

[BroadwayBlue]

karolscali & Doug,
this link shows my VIN # for my car and you can see the VIN on the engine block.

Doug

http://www.californiaspecial.com/forums/vbpicgallery.php?do=big&p=163

Where was the bottom picture taken? I recognize the other 3.

 

[68sunlitgold]

Rich,
it is the VIN that is stamped on the fender, it is covered in the black "anti rattle" stuff they but on the fenders. I had to take off the top fender bolts to get at it since all San Jose fender VIN stamps are not in the correct "window" area.

Doug

 

[robert campbell]

If you jack the front of the car up and take the front tires off, you can sometimes see the VIN numbers stamped in reverse through the metal. Look for the line of fender bolts coming through and start cleaning the inner apron ledge that the fender bolts capture nuts clamp to. If you look at the left fender from the top and see the little rectangle cut that 1967 VIN's were stamped you can judge the spot on the underside you should clean. I have seen cars with the VIN stamped on both sides forward of the shock tower and both sides aft of the shock tower. 3 of the hidden under the fender aprons. 4 places!!! Kinda messy work, and sometimes the samping is tough to read if it was hit lightly. Hold a piece of paper on the underside stamping and rub gently with a short pencil with the lead sideways. Sometimes that helps you read the numbers and letters.

This way you do not need to disturb the fenders if you are not starting a restoration and the car is nice.

Rob

 

[BroadwayBlue]

thanks guys!

 

[ponyboy]

Hey guys, just wanted to add something to your block code thread. My car is a 289 but when i rebuilt my engine i noticed that the block was stamped 302 and that my vin # was also stamped in the block.I'm wondering if there was a shortage of 289 blocks or were they just using them because they are interchangable. Also to the best of my knowledge the 289 blocks weren't stamped, only the 302's and big blocks. Anyone out there run into this same situation? thanks Rich

 

[BroadwayBlue]

As far as I know, a large number of the 289 blocks are stamped "302". It should be stamped in the "valley" of the block. Is that where you saw it?
I can't think of what the area is called right now.

I believe they were interchangeable.

 

[franklinair]

If my memory serves me, in '68 when Ford was transitioning from 289's to 302's, engine blocks & heads could well be either number. The functional difference between a 289 & 302 being the stroke which increased the cubic inches.

Neil