How to Identify a Small Block Chevy
The Chevrolet small-block V8 has been one of the most popular engines around since it was first introduced in 1955. They're popular to use for custom cars, trucks and even motorcycles. They can easily be found at junkyards, online or even at the local parts store, and there are literally hundreds of available parts out there to maintain and customize these engines. Several displacement models have been released, from the popular 350-cubic-inch model, the 327, 283 and 305. There are several different variants, all with different horsepower and torque numbers. When searching for a small-block Chevy for your project, it's important to be able to identify which model it is so that you get what you want. For example, a 305 small block is good on gas, but doesn't put out a lot of horsepower. Conversely, a 350 is the most popular model, but depending on the year, it may not be legal to install in your vehicle. But don't worry, identifying a small-block Chevy is pretty easy and only takes a few minutes to do.
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Things You'll Need
- Engine degreaser such as Simple Green or GUNK
- Small wire brush
- Flashlight
- Pen or Pencil
- Paper
Instructions
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1
Look at the overall size of the engine. There are both small- and big-block V8s out there, and when placed side by side, it's pretty apparent which is which. If the engine is installed, see if it takes up the entire bay. If it looks absolutely mammoth, then it's most likely a big-block, so move on to the next vehicle. Otherwise, continue on.
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2
Look at the passenger side front of the engine block--the left side, just forward of the valve cover. There is a flat pad on the block, facing up. Use the wire brush and degreaser to clean off the pad so you can read the numbers. These are the ID numbers that you can use to ID the block.
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3
Write down the engine code using the paper and pen. Reference the number on the Mortec website listed in the links section, which covers every small block Chevrolet V8 number. This will tell you where the engine was produced, when and what it was originally used for. Take note: if the code starts with "CE," the engine is a crate engine or a replacement for the original model.
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4
Look at the rear of the block, on top of the engine, near where the bell housing to the transmission attaches. Use the wire brush and degreaser if needed.
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5
Write down the code on the block. It should be made up of numbers alone, not letters and numbers, as the casting is on the front of the block. This number is generally the displacement of the engine in liters. A 5.7l engine is a 350-cubic-inch model, for example.
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6
Reference the numbers to the Mortec website. They have a list of all of the model numbers of every small-block Chevrolet V8 available.
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