Trouble finding a correct date code block for a 61

[Gordon P.]

Bringing back to life a 1961 that was in storage for twenty five years. I'm performing a body off restoration and have run into the normal issues. The car is numbers and date code correct. The problem I have found is a cracked block that was due to storing with out antifreeze just water. The engine shop advised me that the crack was not repairable. I need a correct date code block to keep the car correct ,the vin is 10867s110828 .
Does anyone have a source for finding the correct 283 block?
The car has all neat stuff dual quads, power top, plus the hardtop and orginal tires and interior.
Appreciate any assistance,

Gordy

[David V.]

Re: Trouble finding a correct date code block for a 61

Have you tried ebay?

[Gordon P.]

Re: Trouble finding a correct date code block for a 61

Yes time and time again but no luck for the correct date code yet I guess I'm searching for a garage find.

[David V.]

Re: Trouble finding a correct date code block for a 61

Good luck with the garage find. Randy's engines limited in Wisc. could probably help you, BUT you'll pay.

[Philip A.]

Re: Trouble finding a correct date code block for a 61

Considering the added value of an original engine and stamping, I would recommend getting a second or even third engine shop opinion on repairing the block, before writing it off.
Regard,
Phil

[Richard M.]

Re: Trouble finding a correct date code block for a 61

Considering the added value of an original engine and stamping, I would recommend getting a second or even third engine shop opinion on repairing the block, before writing it off.
Regard,
Phil

I completely agree!!! Today's technology may be able to repair. Maybe that one shop says it's not fixable, but others may be able too.......and even if not, save it as it may be feasible that future technology can.

Rich
p.s. too bad.....my 59 has a 61 block, but from a early 61, #024xx.

[Jim T.]

Re: Trouble finding a correct date code block for a 61

It has been awhile since I visited a salvage yard/junk yard, but one I did visit years ago was able to access other yards if a part was needed. The one I best remember had engines stacked from the floor to the ceiling on shelves. Perhaps with E-Bay they don't need their older method to sell stuff.

[Gordon P.]

Re: Trouble finding a correct date code block for a 61

Considering the added value of an original engine and stamping, I would recommend getting a second or even third engine shop opinion on repairing the block, before writing it off.
Regard,
Phil

I'll give it a try, thanks

[Jack H.]

Re: Trouble finding a correct date code block for a 61

Not only do you want/need a correct cast number/correct date coded donor block, but you also need that block to be a Saginaw/Flint vs. Tonawanda part. Understand the differences between the two engine factories BEFORE you go shopping for those 'numbers' or you can BURN yourself by purchasing a fine taxi cab motor instead of a Corvette engine!

[Gordon P.]

Re: Trouble finding a correct date code block for a 61

Yep,I believe several that we have reviewed came out of a Checker. Thanks for the heads up.

Gordy

[Gordon P.]

Re: Trouble finding a correct date code block for a 61

Good luck with the garage find. Randy's engines limited in Wisc. could probably help you, BUT you'll pay.

Thanks for the lead but no luck on the date code from Randy's.

Gordy

[Gordon P.]

Re: Trouble finding a correct date code block for a 61

Considering the added value of an original engine and stamping, I would recommend getting a second or even third engine shop opinion on repairing the block, before writing it off.
Regard,
Phil

Three builders all agree that in a mater of months with use the heat would open it up again.

Thanks,

Gordy

[Gordon P.]

Re: Trouble finding a correct date code block for a 61

If you wait good things can happen. A friend mentioned the condition of my cracked block to a neighbor and he said to bring it to his truck repair shop after hours and he would try to zipper it. The shop rebuilds and repairs truck engines. Everything went well so now only time will tell how well the zipper works.

Gordy