Remember the old crusty nova we revived after 24 years of sitting in a backyard? Well, I also acquired an engine as part of the package deal. The engine, a bit of a mystery, got me all excited to dig into it and unravel its secrets.
The first thing that caught my attention were the later model double hump heads, indicating a potential gem. The casting number 3956618 suggests it could be a 327, 350, or a 302, typically found in high-performance engines from the late ’60s.
The suffix code revealed it’s a 1969 350 with 300 horsepower, automatic transmission, and a four-barrel carburetor. Exhilarating as it sounds, the journey had just begun.
Upon diving deeper, the cylinder heads and the block complemented each other perfectly, a rare find in the world of old engines. The heads, with a casting number 186 and a date code indicating February 1969, added more charm to this discovery.
Checking the other parts accompanying the engine revealed a mix of bonus items and some potential clues about its history. The remnants of valve train work hinted at a possible aftermarket camshaft or age-related issues.
Despite its past, the engine turned out to be a promising candidate for a rebuild, requiring minimal investment to turn it into a robust 350. The thrill of decoding and uncovering the engine’s potential made the whole experience truly satisfying.
Unearthing hidden gems and deciphering the engine’s history was indeed a rollercoaster ride, reinforcing the notion that treasure often lies in the most unexpected places.
What did the speaker find in the engine?
The speaker found a 350 engine with later model double hump heads, a 350 crank, and cylinder heads with casting numbers matching a late production 1969 engine.
What do the suffix code and casting number indicate about the engine?
The suffix code and casting number on the engine indicate that it is a 1969 350 with 300 horsepower, automatic transmission, and a four-barrel carburetor.
What additional parts were found with the engine?
In addition to the engine, the speaker found parts such as a water pump, oil filter, hardware, distributor, alternator, intake manifold, valve covers, air cleaner, and various small items.
What are the speaker’s plans for the engine?
The speaker plans to rebuild the engine using a simple rebuild kit, new main bearings, rod bearings, rings, and a gasket set, with an estimated additional cost of around five hundred dollars.