In putting together photos for Dale's latest collection, I couldn't make heads or tails of the engine date stamp on my '69. What I see is not a date stamp but a word. I'm not going to say what I think it looks like so it doesn't influence anyone else.

What does this look like to you?

I think that's that rare engine Dean? posted, it's an anchor for a BASS boat!!!:clonk:

it says pass
it is stamped on all passenger car big blocks
the truck blocks don't have that on them
the side of my 454 says hi perf pass
and came out of a 73 s-3 laguna
the truck block I have doesn't have that on it
I'm sure there is alot more info about this and plenty will chime in

it says pass
it is stamped on all passenger car big blocks
the truck blocks don't have that on them
the side of my 454 says hi perf pass
and came out of a 73 s-3 laguna
the truck block I have doesn't have that on it
I'm sure there is alot more info about this and plenty will chime in

The "Hi Perf pass" stamp is in the area under the bellhousing. This stamp is in the location where the date stamp should be.

Looks like BA89 to me.
Ron

I believe what you are looking at is the PASS tag that is on the mounting boss for the bellhousing just above the block casting number, there is a similar one on the back of the block and I'm sure another larger one under the timing cover. The date code is located, on mine anyways, on the passenger side of the block near the middle freeze plug. Actually had to go out and look at mine in the garage. hope that helps. Looks like a BA65 or BA89 but I'd bet it was just casting flaws that obscure the actual PASS letters.

I believe what you are looking at is the PASS tag that is on the mounting boss for the bellhousing just above the block casting number, there is a similar one on the back of the block and I'm sure another larger one under the timing cover. The date code is located, on mine anyways, on the passenger side of the block near the middle freeze plug. Actually had to go out and look at mine in the garage. hope that helps. Looks like a BA65 or BA89 but I'd bet it was just casting flaws that obscure the actual PASS letters.

Well, you learn something new everyday! Unfortunately, I'll probably forget it by this evening! :clonk:

On my two 454's the date stamp is above the bellhousing so I naturally (and incorrectly) assumed the 396 to be the same.

Thanks.

Well, you learn something new everyday! Unfortunately, I'll probably forget it by this evening! :clonk:

On my two 454's the date stamp is above the bellhousing so I naturally (and incorrectly) assumed the 396 to be the same.

Thanks.
Vin number possibly on oil filter boss also.