Block ID
 

I am looking at a car with a 3999290 casting big block with a CE stamp. The owner claims that it is an original 4 bolt main. I looked it up and it comes up as a 2 bolt block application. Any chance that it would could have been a 4 bolt? Would 4 bolts produced in the early seventies for replacement have use used the same casting? Or more likely I am just being told a story?

Re: Block ID
 

This block has been found in both 2-bolt & 4-bolt main form,regardless of what Colvins book shows.
Although not released until 1972 production,many a 1970 L-78 Chevelle/Nova/Camaro have been found with this as a warranty replacement block.

Re: Block ID
 

Thank you for the reply and information. It is a big help.

Re: Block ID
 

Bill, our 70 L78 Nova has a 1972 dated CE 290 block in it. I confirmed with the original owner that he had the replacement done by a local Chevy dealer after the motor failed. If you need casting dates or CE sequence I can look it up for you.

wilma

Re: Block ID
 

Thanks for the offer of assistance. I will PM the CE number over to you.