Decoding a 340 block

[Hilljack68]

I'm poised to pick up a 340 block here locally. I'm hoping you guys could shed some light on the casting number... FW340P33920517. I believe the FW is the plant designation, and the P is premium fuel. Is there a way to tell a manufacturing date? Thanks.

 

[rumblefish360]

For more info on the block and what it was in which may shed more information, look for a flat machines area with numbers that also have the original cars vin. number.

On the front of the block drivers side up top close to the deck are more numbers and markings.

Generally speaking, all 340’s are built the same with minor exceptions, like a cam change on the one year only 4spd manual trans cars or the 6 pack heads, lower compression years and the externally balanced. ‘Late ‘72&’73 and late years small intake valve head.

The factory always recommended premium fuel for the 340 with possible exception to the low compression years.

 

[69Coronetrt]

I'm poised to pick up a 340 block here locally. I'm hoping you guys could shed some light on the casting number... FW340P33920517. I believe the FW is the plant designation, and the P is premium fuel. Is there a way to tell a manufacturing date? Thanks.

3392 tells us the engine was assembled on Tuesday, Nov 10, 1970 so it's out of a 71 model year car.

0517 tells us it was the 517th engine assembled that day.

 

[Hilljack68]

Hey, that's pretty impressive! Where do you dig up info like that? Thanks for the help! Today's the day I run down to check out the engine. One more question: My Coronet was born with (and still has) a 904. The guy's not sure what tranny is on the 340. If it's a 727, will it fit in my tranny tunnel? ...and will I have to shorten my drive shaft? Regardless, I may just keep my 904.