396/425HP Casting ID

[Jerry]

I am working on a 396, coupe and while the numbers seem correct and unmolested the casting indicates a passenger block , were all 65, 396s passenger blocke or is this a very good imposter, also the front springs have a hard rubber pad under them of approximately 1" thickness( apparently an elevating spacer ) this part appears to be factory but I can find no literature to indicate if it is or not. any help will be greatly appreciated.

thank you

[Bill Clupper]

Re: 396/425HP Casting ID

Jerry, if you're referring to the word "PASS" cast into the rear of the block, all blocks carried this designation. The unique features of a 396/425 include (but not limited to) the 4-bolt main caps, and the second oil fitting drilled, tapped, and plugged above the oil filter canister.

[Jack H.]

Re: 396/425HP Casting ID

Bill's on the money, Jerry! You should have found this fast/easy in your copy of the '65 Judging Guide. You need a "962" block casting (LH rear apron upper surface near bellhousing) and a correct cast date. This is hard to find and could be real tough to read.

It's on the lower RH side of the block directly BEHIND the exhaust mani. You'll love reading it because you need to shrink yourself to about six inches tall to gain access. All us judges LOVE this job!

Then, on early 396 cars (A or B castings) the "fill" was typically terrible making the cast date codes look like the lunar surface. More fun!

But, there are lots of one-year-only parts to see, admire, and spend a bloody fortune on if yours are factory incorrect and you want a top drawer concours car (starter motor, washer bag, water pump, 696 alternator, the list goes on). Been there, done that, got the plaques on mine (15778).