Thread: Engine ID

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Just bought an '81 El Camino. Originally had a 6 cyl but now with a SBC. Supposed to be a 350 but I'd like to know for sure what it is. I've checked all the web sites I could find but have not found matching block casting number/block stamp.

Casting number: 8970010 (First digit IS 8, not 3.)

Stamp: V0421TAG Can't find "TAG" in any list.

Don't have a VIN.

Any help would be great.

Originally Posted by jima

Just bought an '81 El Camino. Originally had a 6 cyl but now with a SBC. Supposed to be a 350 but I'd like to know for sure what it is. I've checked all the web sites I could find but have not found matching block casting number/block stamp.
Casting number: 8970010 (First digit IS 8, not 3.)

Ummm, no, the first digit is NOT 8, it is 3. There was no casting number 8970010.
3970010-302, 327, 350, 1968 to 1980.
Post a casting number off the heads.....under the valve cover
http://www.speednik.com/files/2013/09/stockCastNo.jpg

Go back for a second look at that suffix number.

.

TAG is a 71 truck 350 255hp LS-9 with 400 turbo 4 bbl carb in a 3/4ton truck
P body (van)

I could find no reference to a 8970010 casting code for a chevy block small, big or otherwise.
The code for the engine in my 76 Vette is 3970010 and it can be either 2 or 4 bolt mains. Since mine started life as an L48 I suspect it's a 2 bolt main block and if I have to pull the engine to change cams I'll find out. That casting number was used from 69-79 so it's a pretty common block.