Is there any way to tell if my 305 is the correct HO version without removing a cylinder head to check for flat tops?

 

What's the 8th digit of your VIN?

 

It's originally an L69 car, but does not have the original 305 in it. The 8th digit is "G". Also, I would imagine if it isn't a HO version, I should be able to rebuild it with a kit for the G coded engine, should I not?

 

You can check casting numbers on the block as well as the head numbers by pulling the valve covers. You could have a 305 combo with all kinds of mix matched parts.

 

Probably, but would it really matter? Why not put something better in instead?

 

I don't want to over power the T5 that's in there. 300hp 350 already wrecked it once. Besides, it's a daily driver (short trip to work), not a tire roaster. I just want to try and restore it as close as possible.

 

In that case just rebuilt it what whatever parts are cheapest.

 

Look at the suffix codes on the front of the block under and behind the alternator. There is a partial vin there, you can find if its the original block. It if the #'s are missing its been machined and there is no way to tell.

 

The T5 should hold up pretty well behing a roller LB9, which I think was the most potent of the 305s.