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Engine Pad BB Anomaly? Not Rectangular?

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Old Nov 22, 2014 | 11:27 PM
  #1  
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Default Engine Pad BB Anomaly? Not Rectangular?

Hi members. I am thinking about buying another 70 LS5 454, and found one that I like. My problem is with the Engine pad, since I have not seen a BB engine pad that was not perfectly rectangular. I have owned two very original 454 cars this year, and both had perfectly rectangular pads.

I have attached a photo and would appreciate any opinions on this pad. I am not 100% sure on the stamping, but the VIN area looked perfect to me, although I'm not sure about the two number 1s in the Date, as mine have all had the 1 looking like the capital letter I.

Could this be a block from a truck, and not a passenger car? Could it be a casting anomaly?

I have also attached a photo of the 72 LS5 that I owned, which was owned by an older woman for 40 years, which I believe is definitely the original block.

Your opinions are appreciated.

Thank you,

Steve
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Old Nov 23, 2014 | 01:06 AM
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From: YANKEES UNIVERSE 70 454-LS5 500 ft-lbs Torque
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I have seen many 70 454 engine pads,first one that looks like that.you might be right very well could be an anomaly as I have seen some strange pads on very original Big Blocks before.BTW,want other details on this LS5,colors,options,etc.Some very knowledgeable people here who I am sure will respond.
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Old Nov 23, 2014 | 07:47 AM
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What's the block casting number and casting date? These will tell you more about the block, then the shape of the pad.

I'm having a hard time seeing any broach on that pad. Are they there and just hidden by all of the pitting, or are they missing?
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Old Nov 23, 2014 | 08:38 AM
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Hi Steve,
How did the very top of the last digit of the engine identification stamp get under the front of the head?
Regards,
Alan
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Old Nov 23, 2014 | 09:03 AM
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From: PHOENIX AZ. WHAT A MAN WON"T SPEND TO GIVE HIS ASS A RIDE
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Originally Posted by Alan 71
Hi Steve,
How did the very top of the last digit of the engine identification stamp get under the front of the head?
Regards,
Alan
Build stamp was stamped before the head was installed at Tonawanda.
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Old Nov 23, 2014 | 09:08 AM
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From: PHOENIX AZ. WHAT A MAN WON"T SPEND TO GIVE HIS ASS A RIDE
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There is nothing missing only some of the machine stock left on the water pump pad below. Casting was shifted a little in the machining fixture so not all the extra stock was taken off.
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Old Nov 23, 2014 | 10:09 AM
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Originally Posted by kenba
There is nothing missing only some of the machine stock left on the water pump pad below. Casting was shifted a little in the machining fixture so not all the extra stock was taken off.
That would be my guess too although the pad surface looks a little wonky. Did someone take steel wool to it?
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