big block casting numbers and symbols

[Gary W.]

I am looking to purchase a 390 hp 427 motor for my 66. I have found a block on e bay (3869942) which should be the correct casting number but the letter "P" appears on it's side under the casting number. Does this mean anything? Does it mean this is a passenger car motor and not a corvette motor? I can't find a reference to this marking in any of the literature I have. Any help would be appreciated.

[Mark #28455]

means nothing

All BB engines were cast at Tonawanda, and all pass blocks are identical including Corvette. The same castings were machined for both 2 and 4 bolt mains. Just make sure it's not a 396 block that has had the casting number "reproduced" with JB Weld!
Mark

[Gary W.]

Re: means nothing

Mark: Thanks for the info but how do I make sure it hasn't been reproduced with JB Weld? And what is JB Weld?

Thanks,

Gary

[lyndon sharpton]

Re: means nothing

can you put your hands on the block? are you buying it over the net? if you can wire brush the numbers and see if they are really cast into the block. JB weld is a expoy that some use to build numbers up with then paint over them.

[Gary W.]

Re: means nothing

I am buying it over the net. Won't be able to wire brush the block. The motor is completely redone.

[lyndon sharpton]

Re: means nothing

ask the seller if he will take the paint off the block an send you a good shot of the casting numbers

[Gary W.]

Re: means nothing

I could give that a try. Not sure how far he will go to make a sale. Thanks for the help.