69 chevy nova ss question

[KAT]

Hey need some help. I am looking at a 69 chevy nova ss that
has a 396 in it. I know that the 350 and the 396 were options on the nova ss in 69. I have the vin but I have not been able to know if the 396 came with it from the factory. Can anybody help me out and put me in the right direction on where to look? Or do I need more then a vin???

Thanks,
Kat

[WILMASBOYL78]

Base engine for SS models was the L48 350/300hp small block...the L-34 396/350hp and the L78 396/375hp were optional...if it has the original driveline the engine code/vin will be on the block pad..near pass side cyl head(under the alt)...original paperwork will also help..build sheets are often found in rear seat springs in Novas..be careful they may be brittle from age. 69 models usually have the engine code on the build sheet. There are many clues that indicate a BB car....post some pics and info and we will help you.

wilma

[KAT]

Let me see if I can get some pics. It is a car a friend is looking at. I have the vin from the car though.

114279W479834 (I couldn't find anything that showed it was original 396 from this number)

Not sure if it has a build sheet in it.

Thanks,
Kat

[WILMASBOYL78]

The VIN only tells you it is a 1969 Nova 2 door coupe with a V8 engine....you will need driveline or document info to go further...pics will be a big help.

wilma

[KAT]

Ok thanks I will see if I can get that info. :-)

[Mr. Chevy]

Kat, take a look at your firewall area. On all original big block novas 68-70 the heater hoses that go to the heater core go through the heater core box which is on the far left side of the firewall area when looking at your engine compartment. This was done because space was limited behind the left head and valve cover which is where the small block hoses enter. Also look at your radiator core support. The opening will be larger than on a small block car due to the larger core radator that the big blocks had. Also look at the rear shocks. The shocks on a big block car are staggered, meaning that the left rear shock bottom bolt will mount to the rear side of the axle and the right side bottom bolt mounts in front of the axle. You may want to also contact the National Nostalgic Nova Club in York PA and speak with president of the club, Wayne Bushey. He is a WEALTH OF KNOWLEDGE on novas and has helped me with technical questions I have had over the years when restoring my 70 Nova SS Big Block Car.. Hope this helps you.. Rich

[YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY]

Rich,

The staggered shock design was standard on all Nova rears from '68+, I believe it's called a 'Salisbury Design'. The BB Novas will come with a 12 bolt rear, but not necessarily a posi.

[KAT]

thanks guys for the help. :-)