8 or 9 in casting block date?

[Anthony S.]

Looking for options on distinguishing between an 8 or a 9 in the casting date for Blocks. Sometimes it seems hard to tell if a number is an 8 or or 9. Any guidance appricated!

[Paul J.]

Re: 8 or 9 in casting block date?

Anthony:

I'l jump in since no one else would. I find 8s and 3s to be the most difficult. I use a magnifying glass and lots of light. Sometimes a grease pencil to highlight the profile. But sometimes it's just a guess.

The stamp pad has the engine assembly date if the pad is readable. I believe that engines were assembled within two weeks of casting, although this varies. I'm too lazy to look it up right now, but there have been several past discussions on it in this forum and they're in the achives.

The only "trick" that I know of is to check any of the web sites and books that show production periods and applications for certain blocks. This will be helpful by eliminating certain years.

If the block is in the car and you believe that it is original then it's even easier, as you can tie it back to the vehicle assembly date.

Paul