checking block against VIN in 1972 454
Thread Starter
4th Gear
Joined: Apr 2018
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
checking block against VIN in 1972 454
I inherited a 1972 BB stingray from family. I was told that the block was original to the car. I mechanic and I got under and above it to verify. All I can find is what I think is a casting number on the drivers side in front of the bell housing. #39999289 that appears to correspond to a 1972 454 vette. Is there a more specific block number that will match the VIN somewhere I'm not seeing?
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 2,093
Likes: 297
From: Midlothian VA
I inherited a 1972 BB stingray from family. I was told that the block was original to the car. I mechanic and I got under and above it to verify. All I can find is what I think is a casting number on the drivers side in front of the bell housing. #39999289 that appears to correspond to a 1972 454 vette. Is there a more specific block number that will match the VIN somewhere I'm not seeing?
So on the front of the motor on the passenger side you'll find that where the head mates to the block there is a small exposed pad area right next to the water pump.
In that area is stamped the VIN number of the car (which should match the VIN you see on the windshield pillar on the drivers side when looking into the windshield). You'll also find a 3 character suffix code that tells you what engine option you have. That pad is frequently covered by paint, grime, oil etc and requires cleaning.
If your mechanic couldn't locate these items it's time to find a more Corvette knowledgeable mechanic.
Thread Starter
4th Gear
Joined: Apr 2018
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
First post - welcome.
So on the front of the motor on the passenger side you'll find that where the head mates to the block there is a small exposed pad area right next to the water pump.
In that area is stamped the VIN number of the car (which should match the VIN you see on the windshield pillar on the drivers side when looking into the windshield). You'll also find a 3 character suffix code that tells you what engine option you have. That pad is frequently covered by paint, grime, oil etc and requires cleaning.
If your mechanic couldn't locate these items it's time to find a more Corvette knowledgeable mechanic.
So on the front of the motor on the passenger side you'll find that where the head mates to the block there is a small exposed pad area right next to the water pump.
In that area is stamped the VIN number of the car (which should match the VIN you see on the windshield pillar on the drivers side when looking into the windshield). You'll also find a 3 character suffix code that tells you what engine option you have. That pad is frequently covered by paint, grime, oil etc and requires cleaning.
If your mechanic couldn't locate these items it's time to find a more Corvette knowledgeable mechanic.
Tech is no classic guru but hes willing to take on an old car and dig into tough problems. Not always easy to find.
Thanks so much for the help.
Last edited by GaryTMcG; Apr 16, 2018 at 08:21 PM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 7,413
Likes: 1,552
From: mount holly NC
2025 c3 ('74-'82) of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2019 C3 of Year Finalist (appearance mods)
Hi and Welcome!
Go here and click on CORVETTE and pick your year.
You can learn a lot about your car.
https://gmheritagecenter.com/gm-heri...tion-kits.html
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 2,093
Likes: 297
From: Midlothian VA
Haven't touched mine in YEARS.
If you're having trouble with it simply start a new thread, give your symptoms, and post a few pics - you'll get lots of help.
