Having trouble matching the block codes on my engine. The block code is YD and motor unit # 028451, the date code on the distributor pad and heads reads K078. YD shows up on the lists as a 67' 400, but I am confused with the dist pad date? (assume 68'). I can't see any VIN # near the left timing cover or get to the back of the block.

The date is a '69 casting date. The '69 YD was a big car 400 2 Bbl. When you do find the VIN stamp it will be something like 29P2XXXXX

A quick look on one site shows a YD as a 67 OR a 69:
HP= 290
Cubic Inches= 400
Trans= A
Code= YD
Compression= 10.5
Cam= 254
Heads= 143061 (#46 HEADS IN 69)
Carb= 2
Year= 67 or 69

With that date code I would assume it was built for the 69 model year?

If I get a chance I'll check some more info, or maybe some one will add more... - Brett!

Figures, Q is AWOL from the site for a long time, and right as I post, he beats me to it... Lol... Glad you check up on us now and then Q!

Thanks guy's,

So it would be normal for the K078 (Nov 68) to be matched with a 69' block stamp? I'm going to try and hunt down the VIN now....

Still could not find the VIN number anywhere I could get to. Was planning on replacing the transmission this winter but looks like I will be in the market for a 68 block as well.

Look next to the timing cover on the passenger side, right behind the lower radiator hose.

I have been all over that area and can't see it, is there a chance the VIN for that block code is stamped in a different area? I just got the car a month ago from out of state and was told it had a 68 block, I had planned to replace the current powerglide out with a TH400 this winter and have the engine pulled and detailed. I am going to try and pick up a correct block and change it out if things work out.

Can you send a pic of the distributor pad area? Sometimes the casting "6" and "8" are very close in appearance. If it is a '67 block, it generally won't have a VIN stamp.

I'll try and get a photo(s), the pad does seem match the date stamp on the heads K078.

Vikki,

Can you PM me an address to send the photo's to? I haven't figured out how to attach here in the reply.