CE Blocks

[Lawrence S.]

When did the CE block program start. What year, and was it for all Chevrolet models?

[Jim T.]

Re: CE Blocks

Do not know when it started, know for a fact it was in use in 1970. Engine failures while under the factory warranty received replaced short blocks/long blocks with CE stamped on them. One good thing about CE blocks, if it happened early enough in the warranty period a correct block with acceptable casting dates and casting numbers the NCRS judging points lost would only be for not having the original VIN and engine type stamping.

[John H.]

Re: CE Blocks

Jim -

The "CE" coding for 5/50 warranty replacements was a corporate program, and was announced in the April, 1969 issue of "Chevrolet Service News", and a similar coding was to be used for the other four car divisions as well. Replacements were furnished as short blocks or "fitted blocks" (no crank or rods).

[Lawrence S.]

Re: CE Blocks

John,

So no CE blocks prior to 1969.

If the above is true what happened if you had an engine failure in your 67 L 71 with only say 6,000 miles and it was still 1967?

Thanks as always

[John H.]

Re: CE Blocks

You got essentially the same kind of replacement short block ("partial engine" in those days), most likely with a blank pad; as with the later "CE" block, all the bolt-on parts were to be transferred from the failed engine.

[Lawrence S.]

Re: CE Blocks

John,

That would explain the blocks with no VIN stamped in them for 67's etc?

Thank you

[Troy M.]

Re: CE Blocks

I have a 427 block cast May 14, 1968 (casting number 3935439). With CE 870673 on the pad.

[Joseph C.]

Re: CE Blocks

When I purchased my '65 Coup the PO stated that he thought the block in the car was a factory repalcement but was not sure. The engine pad is blank but the trim tag under the glove box has an additional stamping of 6 6 5. I have not checked the casting number or date yet but I'm wondering if those numbers represent the block replacement date? The build date on the car is 6/4/65 so I have my doubts.

[John H.]

Re: CE Blocks

Joe -

That 6 6 5 stamping on your trim tag is the delivery date; the dealers were "encouraged" to stamp it next to the "DD" on the VIN plate, but very few did - some stamped it on the trim tag. I have photos of several trim tags with the delivery date crudely stamped on them.