Well, I posted a bit earlier asking what the compression was on a '76 455. It appears I should learn to recheck the casting numbers and not go from memory Block casting # is 1238861, heads are 1238148. I did some digging and this appears to be a 72 block, not a 76. The engine is stamped with the code WF. What are the specs on this motor? T/A says it should be 8.5:1 compression, is that correct? Anything that can be done to bump it up a tad? As I posted in the earlier thread I'm trying for as close to 9.0:1 as I can get without machine work on the rotating assembly.
Also, interestingly enough, the engine decodes as a 72, but only has a single scallop and round water passages. Here's some pics of the casting #s and block: And whil I'm at it, anyone have a cam recommendation for that motor? I looked through TA's catalog, but I get the feeling most of those recommendations are for lower geared, heavier cars than mine. I'm sticking the motor in an 83 Regal T-type with the stock stall speed. I don't know what that will stall at behind the 455, but it stalls around 2400 behind an Olds 307--the 3.8 V6 and HO 307 cars share the same converter, I believe. Heck, I may have to go to a tighter converter--I'm not sure. Have to see what it stalls at I guess. At any rate, it's going in a lighter body than any GS, with 3.42 rear gears and 200-4R trans to boot. However, it is going to have the stock compression... so does anyone have any cam suggestions? I was looking at the TA 212 and 310 cams... but I don't think I have enough compression for the 310.
Ron - It looks like an early '72 block. It will actually have a date code, by the timing cover (I think). Here is some additional block information and pictures from Kerry S. :TU:
