FE casting number location/decoding info?

[Toby]

Just became an FE owner with the purchase of ERA 234. I would like some info on casting number locations on the block and heads. I know for sure this is a sideoiler but beyond that I am unsure. Any and all help would be appreciated, I am curious about the year of the block,type of heads,etc. From the lack of valvetrain noise I don't think it's a solid lifter cam, but I don't know how to tell without pulling a lifter. Engine is supposed to have steel crank, LeMans rods, but I guess to verify I would have to pull the pan? Previous owner did not have any specs on engine build that could be verified. This was a factory assem. complete turnkey, ERA had no specs from 1990 on the engine or, who they got to assemble.

Thanks in advance,
Toby

[flwolfman]

I highly recommend HOW TO REBUILD BIG-BLOCK FORD ENGINES by Steve Christ. Lots of info on casting numbers and interchangability. Heads will have a number something like C5AE 6090 F or C3AE 6090 J. Look between spark plugs for casting numbers and under valve covers for date code. The 427 blocks can be confusing. Some have 427 cast into them and some just have 352 and some nothing at all. I believe the date code is by the oil filter adapter is I remember correctly. I would have to look again to be sure. Hope this helps, Jim

[sideoiler10]

FE block casting numbers are located at the right rear (passenger side) behind the starter mounting location. The starter will have to be removed to see it. Not all FE blocks have casting numbers; i.e., service blocks for example. Not sure if all or just some of the service blocks were cast without numbers. Service blocks are easily identified I believe, by the vertical parallel "ribs" that are cast into the sides of the block. All of the FE blocks are cast with date codes which are located beside the oil filter mount on the front left (driver side).

Another excellent book is:

"High Performance Ford Engine Parts Interchange"

One of these is currently for sale on Ebay...item number 180073534432, for about $16 bucks. It is a great book with tons of information about all the ford engines of the period. It has lists of all the casting numbers for blocks, heads, and most other engine parts. Excellent information to have.

Good luck, Bob

[Toby]

Thanks again for the info!
Toby