Can anyone tell me where all the Identification numbers like letter code and vin code numbers are located on a 1970-1972 455ci blocks( Buick of course). I am trying to learn what year block I have and if it's a Stage1 or not??? Thanks Chris
http://www.buicks.net/shop/reference/engine_ident_where.html http://www.buicks.net/shop/reference/bigblock_casting_numbers.html http://www.buicks.net/shop/reference/engine_ident_63_75.html Devon
Devon, i found the number on the teans mount which is 1231738, but nothing on the left side between the spark plugs , anywhere else I should look............Thanks Chris ---------- Post added at 02:25 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:24 PM ---------- I cant find any numbers on the left side by the dipstick holw. Any suggestions.............Thanks Chris
Chris. If the deck surfaces of the block have been machined, the engine ID and VIN would likely be gone. The casting number 1231738 was used from beginning of 455 production to mid-model year 1971. On 1971 engines (and some 1970 depending on the assembly plant), the VIN can be found on the driver's side cylinder bank at the front of the block, just under the deck surface. All engine ID numbers and letters were on the deck surface though. If your engine ID is gone, the only other clues to the Stage 1 option would be the larger valves, a groove in the camshaft behind the #1 journal, and an enlarged main oil galley with 5/8" pick-up tube. The larger galley and pick-up were standard after mid-model year 1971 on all 455s (1238861 casting) , and many 1231738 blocks have since been modified, so these two items will not absolutely identify a Stage 1 motor. In kind many heads have been subsequently cut for big valves, so this is not a hard and fast rule either. Once the "SS" code is gone, it is difficult to prove the Stage 1 option.
