Topic: Engine assembly dates

[gjz30075]

Hi all,
Shown as an example of a 289 assembly date code:


Is this the date the entire engine was assembled or just the short block?  Or any variation of?

Thanks.

[J_Speegle]

My understanding that this was the long block date and assembly person

[CharlesTurner]

The same stamping format can be found on the flat surface of the block that the oil pan attaches, usually on one end.

[J_Speegle]

Here is an illustration of the machining date Charles was describing - same basic format


In this case 2 days after the block was cast




And another example where it looks to be ten days or so after the block casting date

[gjz30075]

Thanks Charles and Jeff!   It would make sense that the assembly would be a long block, since it looks like the assembly dates aren't on any surface that gets covered up during assembly.   The ones on the oil pan mating surface look close.  Perhaps the assembler first stamps the date, then assembles.

[CharlesTurner]

My guess is the 2 dates are indicative of 2 separate steps in the engine assembly process.  Most likely done by different workers at different stations.

[J_Speegle]

My guess is the 2 dates are indicative of 2 separate steps in the engine assembly process.  Most likely done by different workers at different stations.

+1  Since the dates on the pan and the top can different by a measure believe its two different steps and workers. The assembly dates are covered (described) in a TBS - have not seen any documentation relating to the machining date or the other various since digit/letter stamps we often find on the oil pan lip

[gjz30075]

Thanks guys!

[68 S Code]

Took a look at this as I've seen this on a number of blocks. Checked casting date versus the stamped dates like in the pic and have seen a range from a few days to a few weeks. Just wondering in the case of a few days. Is it possible that the stamped date is not a long block assembly date but a date for machining the raw casting. Engine assembly 2 days after casting would mean a fairly green engine. Wouldn't cast iron need some time to cure? Kind of like concrete. There is a curing time for it to gain strength. Just a thought.