I did a search and I am confused by conflicting information.

I have a small block chevy in the '83 TA I just purchased. The pad on the block in front of the pass side head is stamped with 55849. This number does not correspond the the last few numbers of the VIN. There are no other letters or numbers on the pad.

The numbers cast into the back of the block behind the driver's side head are 355909. Some sources say this is a '76-'77 305. Other sources say is is a '76-'85 305.

I can't figure out the stamping, there should be more info on the pad. It appears to be the factory finish on the pad. I had to scrape off a bunch of gunk to read it.

Any help appreciated.

 

It's a rebuilt engine; the block has been decked; and the numbers on the pad are the serial or work order number of some sort that the rebuilder put there.

The block the factory would have used, would have probably been the 201.

Not like it really matters much though.... a 305 block is a 305 block, as long as the oil dipstick is in the right place and it has the right rear main seal.

 

and those arent even the decent 305 heads

wow

crappy

im sorry for you

my condolences to you