Correct Engine Casting for Late '61

[Mike B.]

My car's serial number is 110211 making it a late June/early July 1961 assembly date. In a search for the correct block, I learned that GM switched from the "519" block (3756519) to the "935" block (3789935) block sometime in early June, although I have no further specifics.

Can anyone shed more light on this subject? I am particularly interested in hearing from members who could present their serial numbers compared to the orginal block casting number and casting date around the May/June/July time in question.

Of course, any other expert and learned opinions are welcomed as I try to hone in on the most accurate answer to this question.

Thanks,
Mike

[Louis Kolb]

Re: Correct Engine Casting for Late '61

You will find out that in the last 1,000 Corvettes produced in 1961, the plant ran out of 283 engines. They sidetracked a shipment of light duty truck blocks to the Flint plant to be built as Corvette motors, since 1962 was the year that the 327 motor was to be introduced. This information is documented in NCRS research. I own 1961 Corvette VIN 10867S110269 (July 6, 1961) and have the substituted block. The judging manual now defines this block variance for the last 1,000 1961 Corvettes produced.

[Mike B.]

Re: Correct Engine Casting for Late '61

Thanks Louis, that is the type of definitive information that I seek. Is your block in fact a "935"? And, can you please provide the casting date? I really appreciate the help.