Rebuilt L-78 396-375 hp 1969

[CamarosRus]

When we can read or SEE the block/deck assy date codes and read/see the VIN # stampings this engines origin will become clear......VIN example below
Chuck S

[Rodbbc]

Chuck has large plug over filetr #3969854, 1-11-9, pistons
3969974, stamp to924CKO 10w14157, let us know.

[Mr70]

That decodes as a Sept.24th 1969 Tonawanda assembled block.
4 bolt mains.
That VIN# looks like a 1970 Willow Run Plant for a Nova,but is missing a digit?
Where is the VIN# stamped?
On the pad behind the Alternator,or like Chucks Oil filter pad picture?

[JRSully]

That is the first time I have ever seen a 70 Model year Willow run Nova BB engine VIN stamp at the oil filter boss, every one I have seen has been on the front of the block, interesting.

[Jonesy]

The stamping looks more like an "N" than a "W".

[Rodbbc]

This L-78 has only the stamping on the front pad, none over the filter area, dated is I-11-9 block castings of #854 if interested contact [email protected] can ship. Thanks

[Rodbbc]

Is stamped only on the front pad.

[Nova Research Project]

CamarosRus;

I am curious. What is teh date code for your example CKO block shown above?

Thanks,
Greg

[WILMASBOYL78]

I'm with Sully. Never saw an L78 Nova VIN on the block near the oil filter.(and I have looked at few) And by the way Rod, I see you just joined and it seems like you set up shop. Is this a business or hobby program with all the items for sale??

wilma

[CamarosRus]

Everyone, The Longblock above that I show VIN stamping on was assembled T0912CKO.......BUT here's the deal on the VIN stamp.....What I report as a W really doesnt show.....The LETTER(??) didnt strike the block as the NUMBERS did.
After writing Mark Meekins I received back a letter on Jan 28, 1998. In part he wrote.........

" Without a letter code in the VIN there is NO way to tell what the original application was. The one problem usually encountered when the VIN is struck on the bellhousing boss is the loss of characters or what appears as partial digets.
....................
The proximity of month closest to the assembly date of the engine, T0912CKO could make this a Nova engine( Sept VIN)or a Chevelle engine(November and Decemeber VINs). Of course, it could have also been used in January built Chevelles, but these are slim as the LS6 was geared up for production in mid to late Decemeber(actual date is unknown).
The Chevelle VIN for March is out of the question. I know this doesnt clear up your mystery, but I hope it gives you some insights.

Sincerely, Mark Meekins "

His letter gives other info about what months that VIN could have been used on Chevelle and he says that only month it could have been in a Nova was Sept 1969.....

If you guys know better about my eng I APOLOGIZE for misstating the truth. If it matters I can scan and display entire Meekins letter
regards, Chuck Sharin