'69 350/300 hp block number ID...

[oneZ11]

Hey experts, got a possible score for a friend on a 350/300 block and want to authenticate some numbering. Deck pad is: T0512HA, which Tonowanda, mid May, and I believe "HA" means originally with smog pump?

Engine casting # is:  8956618. I know there were a few casting #'s used for 69 350's, is this one correct for 350?

I'm trying to make sure that this is not a "DZ" motor, because even though that would be a good find, would not be correct for his '69 pace car (w/ small block).

Would you also identify for me exactly where the "DZ" or other codes are located on the oil filter boss? (pics welcomed)

[bertfam]

Deck pad is: T0512HA, which Tonowanda, mid May, and I believe "HA" means originally with smog pump?

Engine casting # is:  8956618.

8956618 is actually 3956618 and yes, it was used in 69 for 302's, 327's and 350's. T0512HA is a 69 Camaro 350/300 with manual transmission, but that code was also used in the Nova and the Chevelle, so you'll need to check the partial VIN to see what it originally came out of.

Ed

[oneZ11]

Thanks Ed. Here are two other numbers I got from the seller. Large casting # back of motor 37137. Also, partial VIN? 37886120N (Not sure if this is exactly correct, the phone connection was breaking up.) Anyway, will more than likely pay a visit to inspect block.

[bertfam]

That doesn't appear to be a partial VIN and the 37137 doesn't make sense either. Once you get there, see if you can figure out what those really are.

Ed

[oneZ11]

Yes, will do...

[Mark]

A 5/12/69 built motor is about a week  to late for a Pacecar.  Production had already ended or was just ending before that motor was assembled, and the 618 blocks should already have been replaced by 010 blocks by mid May.  When was the block cast?.

[oneZ11]

Ed, if the partial VIN is not on the deck stamp, where is that located?

Mark, thanks for the date info. My bud's car is a late March car. It already seems like we've almost found the "needle in the haystack". To find a March motor would be difficult. I will definitely discuss with him. Also, one of the large casting numbers seller read to me on the back of the block was: #371386. Does that help?

[bertfam]

The partial VIN should be located on the rough casting area between the oil filter and the bell housing. HERE'S a picture showing where to look.

No, that number still doesn't ring any bells.

Ed

[oneZ11]

Thanks Ed...

[Mark]

If none of the date codes are correct on the cast components, how is having a mid May of 69 engine in a March car better than having any other small block chevy in the car.  Its not the original, and its not "date correct" for the car.  If it's cheap, pcik it up, if theres some kind of premium associated with it for being an old Camaro motor, keep looking.  Just my 2 cents.

[z28z11]

Engine casting # is:  8956618. I know there were a few casting #'s used for 69 350's, is this one correct for 350?

I'm trying to make sure that this is not a "DZ" motor, because even though that would be a good find, would not be correct for his '69 pace car (w/ small block).
 

One other block to look for, which appears in a lot of Z11's (like mine), is the "388" block, also marked HA or HB for the suffix code (manual or automatic 300HP 350's) - I have also heard, but haven't personally witnessed it, that there were a very few DZ motors produced with this casting during a shortage or changeover to the next casting number. The 388's also used either "041" or "186" 1.94/1.50 valved 300 horse heads, just the same as 6618's and the eventual 010 blocks. My Z11 is an 03C car, BTW.

Regards,
Steve

[oneZ11]

I went and checked out the block. Good Shape. Could not find the entire partial VIN stamp. Attached are photos, including the area by the oil filter boss. It looks like 4 numbers, but is that's it. End of a production number – or? Where's the rest?

I read that sometimes GM would put the VIN somewhere on the transmission flange as well. Anybody know where to look?

[oneZ11]

Also, point taken on the date thing Mark. May have to pass and keep looking...

[Mark]

At least the block number would be fine for a march car, Feb 17 1969.  Looks like it sat around for quite a while, if that T0512HA code is a real factory stamp.

[oneZ11]

Yes, interesting. 2 mos. between cast date and stamp date. It all looked legit. Just bummed I couldn't find the partial VIN...