L78 396/375 HP Long Block CKO Stamping

[Rick H]

Chuck,
No BB engine built after the 1970 model year was designated as an L78 unless it was used as a replacement engine. CKO was not used in 1971. Never used in 1972 as well.

Any engine used as a replacement was stamped CE. I would really question any 1972 replacement engine with a 1970 factory stamp.

Please post pictures of the stamp and casting numbers.

Rick H.

[WILMASBOYL78]

I have a theory: seem to recall reading somewhere that the hi-perf BB motors were a late cancellation for 71 model year. Maybe some blocks were produced and stamped in antcipation of being used and then relegated to warranty or service replacement. My engine satmp is CE360285 casting date is E2572.

wilma

[SuperNovaSS]

I will post pictures of my stamps and date codes if it helps. Isn't there a bunch of 71 and 72 blocks running around with 70 LS6 stampimgs too?


Jason

[69LM1]

My 69 Camaro SS has a 71 cast L-78 warranty block with it. It is stamped "CE1XXXX"

Rich

[Rick H]

As we have seen any replacement block would be stamped "CE"

With this block being a late May 71 casting it could have been used in 1971 but with a September block stamp I think it was an attempt to be used in 1972 or restamped (nasty word) according to the original 1970 block stamp.

Again, CKO was not used in 1971 or 1972 and any block correctly replaced under warranty would have been stamped with the replacement code.

Rick H.

[Astock]

Tirebird's LS6 T/A has a CRR code(?) and was one of the last crate motor LS6 available in '73-74.It had to come from Berger Chev. to L.A.

[CamarosRus]

Rtck H, The "restamp/altered" subject is what I have been thinking.....but dont have the real world experience that others here apparently do have.....
Just asking that people that know the facts on these issues.......step up and tell us, like it is, like it was...