1971 Blazer - original engine?

[71swb4x4]

The 350 in my Blazer is stuck. I have thought about buying a running small block to throw in just to get the Blazer running. First I thought I should decode the engine to see exactly what I have. If it's a 307, I have no problem replacing it. But if it's the original motor I will think twice.

So here is what I found:
V0301TBG
The V tells me it was built in Flint. 0301 tell me it was built on March 1st. TBG tells me it was installed in a 1971 truck, 1/2 ton to 3/4 ton. So it's starting to look like the original motor.

The Blazer VIN tag on the door has a March 1971 build date on it. The first 7 digits are KE181S which decode as a 4x4 V8 1/2 ton Blazer built in 1971 in St Louis.

While I realize there are no numbers matching engines in this truck, this one certainly is as close as we can get. Since everything lines up I think I should try to save this 350 before I buy a replacement.

Does anyone see anything that I am missing here?

[ho70]

buying a crate engine is cheaper and quicker if that means something to you. Keep the #'s block so you will always have it. In my opinion, it's not a 396 Camaro or hemi cuda so do what you want. IF you sell it, then you will still have the #'s block to go with it.

[boraxman]

^^^^^ Agree

[DeadheadNM]

TBG is correct for a "K" application 350 (http://www.nastyz28.com/gm-chevy-cod...s-suffix-6.php) - I'd hang on to it as it is likely the Blazer's original 350. Also, decking the block may remove the engine code so if you rebuild the motor you may want to skip this as I did in the rebuild for my K20.

[imjeff]

I'm still a fan of rebuilding. I know it's a little more money, but there is the satisfaction of doing your own work and no compromises on what goes inside. The crates make perfect economic and time wise sense, but I just can't do it (unless it was a 572, then I would suddenly be OK with it). Can't really go wrong either way.

[71swb4x4]

Thanks for the input everyone.
I have no interest in a crate motor, sorry if the original post was confusing. Just trying to make sure I am not missing something on my decoding. It seems like it could be original to me and I want to make sure I am not missing something.

[bruceman1968]

All of your decoding is right.
Is the LS9, 350 option on the spid?
You could check the date code on the block to be sure it was cast before 3/01/71.
If you have the protect o plate, the V0301TBG number will be on it.
Any chance of a Buildsheet?
If no P-o-P or Buildsheet, then your pretty much done. Good job on the decoding!!

[71swb4x4]

Yes, LS9.
No build sheet or protecto-plate although there is a The Guess Who cassette tape if that counts for anything.