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On the right side front of the block there is a machined pad, just forward of the head. On this pad there should be 2 series of numbers stamped. The first will consist of a letter indicating which plant the engine came from, next will be four numbers indicating the assembly date and then there will be 2 or 3 letters which are a code to identify the engine. The second set of numbers will be a derivative the VIN of the vehicle that the motor was originally installed in. An over the counter engine will only have the first set of numbers, and a engine that was rebuilt and decked, may not have any numbers on the pad.
On the left side of the block, behind the head, on the flange where the bell housing bolts up, there will be a part number cast into the block. On the right side rear of the block, in the same area, will be a date in cast into the block.
If you can find and post these numbers and post them here, I'm sure someone will be able to identify the engine.
If you want to know about the heads you need to pull the valve covers. Once you do you will be able to see the casting number. Then you can run them through mortec.com to find what they are off of.
Hi K,
The Navy paints a lot of it's equipment gray so maybe it's a naval surplus engine. Sorry, I couldn't resist.
Did the fellow who looked over the car for you have any idea what it might be?
Regards,
Alan