C1 - 1960 Service Instructions (Stamps on block)

[Tom D.]

What were the instructions to the dealer in 1960, when a service replacement block was installed? Or, did such blocks arrive from Flint with stamped numbers on them?

I have a ...519 block with "S 6 9 60" (or possibly "S 6 9 0") on the pad. The alignment of the letters indicates individual "hits" from a set of numbering tools.

Thanks
Tom D.

[Loren L.]

Re: C1 - 1960 Service Instructions (Stamps on bloc

After the strike was over, St Louis started stamping VIN derivatives (Nov); dealers were also instructed to do so on replacement warranty blocks. However, I would have NO IDEA as to how to begin to decode your stamping - what is the casting date of the block?

[David D.]

Re: C1 - 1960 Service Instructions (Stamps on bloc

Tom, I worked as a light mechanic at a Chevy dealer in the 60's. I vaguely remember that one of the heavy mechanic's used to stamp a service replacement block or short block (don't remember which) with an "S" for service engine and the date installed. In your case of "6 9 0" or "6 9 60", it would indicate the replacement block or short block, was installed June 9th, 1960. So, if your car was built before that date, I would tend to believe that is the case. I really don't remember if there was a factory directive, that this was to be done when a block or short block was replaced under warranty or not. Maybe someone else can add some more info to this. Hope this helps, FWIW. Dave

[Tom D.]

Thanks - It's Cast - E 8 0

Should have mentioned this before. I was told the engine was a dealer replacement for a March 18th FI block (which didn't last very long). The replacement engine story came with the car, and seems to fit.

[Tom D.]

Thanks Dave and Loren

Good feedback! I was told the engine was a dealer replacement for a March 18th block. Guess it would have been a warranty job, probably at the selling dealer in Wayne, MI.

Someone later swapped the heads. Thanks again. Tom D.