L78 396/375 HP Long Block CKO Stamping

[CamarosRus]

If and when this thread comes to a conclusion, WE still need to learn why this 290 block casting, 1971 assembled engine, has the 1970 CKO code (?????)

Thanks,

[SuperNovaSS]

I have placed the short block and heads on EBay at NO RESERVE. Check them out!

Block

Rectangular Port Heads

[LS6HAWK]

I have a #290 4 bolt block w/ threaded remote oil hole above oil filter dated H-71. Pad is stamped "CE". All my books say 2 bolt only, not so. DonE

[SuperNovaSS]

I believe the 2-bolt is for production engines, not crate motors. That is the only explaination I can come up with. Colvin's books are usually right on, but everyone makes mistakes. Especially when going by the info that has been gathered thus far.


Jason

[WILMASBOYL78]

The 290 block was used for both 2 bolt and 4 bolt applications for the 70 model year. Our 70 L78 Marine Corps Nova has a 1972 dated 4 bolt CE motor..these really shouldn't be that rare considering how many 396 cars were made in 1970. A lot of guys blew up both the 350hp and 375hp motors..and Chevy was putting them back together "on the muscle"....not sure how many were made for just regular over the counter sales, but there must have been a decent amount. I've seen some old Berger ads where the L78 motor was one of their std. items.....


wilma

[CamarosRus]

Wilma, Can you tell us if any of these replacement short blocks cast and assembled after the 1970 Model Year at Tonawanda had CKO stamped on them....Is this not the question still at hand.
Please educate me if I am wrong???

[WILMASBOYL78]

I have never seen a CKO block in a CE application...but then I haven't seen Elvis either.

wilma