Small block decode
 

Hello. I'm hoping someone can assist with helping me find out about the engine in my newly aquired 1959 Apache Fleetside. The numbers on the front of the block are V0509JTU. On the back 3970010.-69-79 350 w/2-4 bolt main..I think. I pulled a valve cover and the stamping on the top f the heads read 3998920 E 04 3. Vin V3A59T11289....And help would be appreciated. Thanks, Rob.

Re: Small block decode
 

A lot of the suffix code lists don't have truck numbers on them.

The head casting number is 71/77 350.
3970010 Is as you figured out a 69/79 big journal 4 inch bore block.

Are you positive that you didn't transpose the suffix code ?

http://73-87.com/7387info/engineid.htm

http://casting.brianesser.com/engine...%20more%20rows

http://camaros.org/pdf/LimeBook.pdf

https://nastyz28.com/gm-chevy-codes/...s-suffix-6.php

Re: Small block decode
 

Hi Rob,

Unfortunately the VIN very few clues to identify the engine. The V at the beginning of the VIN indicates your truck was originally ordered with a V8 which makes it less common than a six cylinder truck. 3A shows it is a 3100 series 1/2 ton truck. 59T confirms it is a 1959 model year truck, and 11289 indicates 11,288 trucks were built at this plant prior to this vehicle.

The casting number does appear to be from a 1968 - 1979 4" bore block which means there's a small chance your engine is a 68-69 327 and a large chance it's a 350. GM often used the same casting for different engines so this number is only good as a general reference.

The code on the front of the engine is usually the most helpful in identifying the engine. Code V0509 indicates the engine was built in Flint, MI after 1966 (V) on the 9th day of the 5th month. The engine code JTU does not appear in any online references (including the very thorough Lime Book).

The casting number for the cylinder head corresponds to a 72-73 350 head. The date code for the cylinder head E043 indicates the head was built May 4, 1973.

Although cylinder heads can be replaced, the date codes and engine size info suggest the heads and block may belong together. It would be helpful to get the year of the engine block for confirmation. The block casting date is usually located on the bell housing flange to the right of center. See here and here. If you can't see the cast date, maybe sanding / scraping paint off the block pad would reveal additional numbers? There is a "TJU" engine code for a 1973 van and bus 350 w/ 4bbl carb. Is it possible the engine code on the front of the block was copied incorrectly? It may also be worthwhile to look for a casting number and date code on the intake manifold and to get the numbers off the carburetor. Everything can be changed, but the more numbers that are in agreement the more confidence you can have in the identification. Ultimately it may be hard to determine much more than "Chevrolet 350" without taking the engine apart.

Re: Small block decode
 

like 1p2m said your truck is an original v8 truck
truk had a 1974 smog 350 in it, once decoded it had a whopping 140 hp :D
since our trucks are light, even 140 hp scooted it along fine
don't plan on big hp once you decode it properly, just enjoy it

Thanks for that wealth of information. I will do some more checking. You are correct I did mix up the letters. It dies read TJU. I’ll reply more when I can get the information. Thanks again I really appreciate it. BTW this truck is a Fleetside SWB with the big back window. I don’t think there are any production numbers but what are your thoughts on rarity?
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Re: Small block decode
 

The 73 Van 350 Jives with the head casting numbers and the date code on the head.

Re: Small block decode
 

I'm sorry, but I wouldn't know where to find numbers to answer that accurately. But I think it's a cool truck regardless of rarity.