69 Chevelle engine block numbers
 

I am buying a 69 Chevelle SS 396, the guy says that the motor is matching numbers but the front pad numbers were machine down when the block was bored to a 402. It is a code 72 Monaco paint car so I am pretty sure it's an SS so my question is. Did they stamp the partial VIN anywhere else on the block, it is a Fremont CA car. I have heard some plants stamped by the oil filter as well, is this true with Fremont or another plant specific.
Thanks Larry

Check this out

http://i777.photobucket.com/albums/y...p/EngineID.jpg

Ok I am going to look at the car Saturday, from what he said. The engine ID and partial VIN numbers were ground off in the process of turning the block into a 402. Would that process grind that pad enough to remove the numbers or am I dealing with something suspicious?

Sounds like they decked the block quite a bit to remove the VIN stamp. Look for a date code, and get the casting #. If the date code is relatively close to the build date of your car, and the casting # is right for the application - it could be the original block. However, it will never have the value ever again now that the original VIN stamp has been lost through machine work. It can be restamped, but it's hard to get the broach marks to look right from what I understand.

I really like the pic Ray. That will help a lot of people. Thanks.