[EddieF]

Someone in the classifieds has this 396 for sale. What can be known from these numbers? And it needs a rebuild, what's a good price for it? Guy's asking $700.

"1965 or 66 Chevy. 396 Engine, block date G-28-5, block #3855961 with IA code. Heads are 3856206 with G-28-5 and G-29-5 dates. This is the thick 396 block that can be bored more than others. (Needs rebuilding.)"

Thank you.
Ed.

 

[Don_Lightfoot]

Here's what www.mortec.com says.

Block 3855961, 396 CI, 1965-66, 2 or 4 bolt mains.

Heads 3856206, 396, 1965-66, oval port, closed chamber, 97cc.

I'm really not in a position to provide an estimated value, Hope this helps.

 

[ss3964spd]

Ed,

The "961" blocks were used in 65 and 66 - that's the block in my Impala. I think - but may be wrong, that the "206" heads were '65 only and used on the 325 HP 396's. the '66 version of the 396/325 and the 427/390 used the "702" heads. Also, the 961 block was used on the '66 427/390 engines.

As far as the "IA" code goes - I just don't remember and I don't have the book with me here at work. The date codes translate into July, 28/29, 1965 castings so it's likely these were in a 1965 full size car. If the engine is stock it will have a forged steel crank (not cast) and forged pistons.

The statement "This is the thick 396 block that can be bored more than others" hasen't necessarily been proven, but is easily verified via a sonic check.

If the engine is complete 700 doesn't seem too bad.

Dan

 

[1966_L78]

"G-28-5" July 28, 1965, I think this would be likely for a very early 1966 model.
"3855961" Standard 2-bolt main 396
"IA" Not positive on the HP rating, but I think 325 HP. From a full-size car (Impala, etc). NOT a Chevelle block (although it really shouldn't matter.
"3856206" I think these are just standard 65-66 oval port heads, nothing special.

"This is the thick 396 block that can be bored more than other" So! Supposedly some of these earlier blocks had thicker cylinder walls. They could be rebuilt more often. I guess you could bore it out to build a bigger engine, but if engine size matters, a 454 block would probably be a better choice (IMO)... I guess he didn't say if its a standard bore...

Is it a complete motor with intake (Holley or Q-Jet?), tin (oil pan, timing cover valve covers), carb, crank/rods/balancer)? It should have a steel crank if original.

These older blocks require a groove to be machined into the camshaft for proper oiling...


If complete, then $700 is probably reasonable. Not a bargain, but not too bad.

 

[EddieF]

Thanks for the quick replies, guys. It's within driving distance so it piqued my curiosity, just wanted to know what the numbers meant.
Thanks.
Ed.