47-59 Small block decode

[RostaRob]

Originally Posted by 1project2many

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.

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?
Posted via Mobile Device