Originally Posted by tclederman
Bob,

F54O might be F54Q, which usually indicates a 1954 261.

The best way to ID an engine is to find/post the following codes:
1. block casting code
2. block date casting code
3. head casting code
4. head date casting code
5. Engine Serial Number (which you posted above)

I'd bet you have a 261 (unless someone other than GM pressed that ESN on the block).


Tim

Using the "de-coding" info you gave me, I feel more confidant that I have a 261 engine. I pulled the starter and found the date code and it has the Captain's bars above. I'm going to find the code to the right of the distributor next and then I'm more certain.

Captain's Bars & date code

Next, I'm finding a replacement for the shredded harmonic balancer I found behind the radiator. This one split right at the woodruff key slot. Even if the engine seized up suddenly, I can't imagine a force great enough to splay open the balancer in such a manner.

Shredded harmonic balancer

Thanks for your help.


Bob

1954 Chevy 3100 5-Window
1954 5-Window COE aka "THE BEAST"
Bill Ritchie's Original Truck

Granddad's Hardware Store: Ritchie Hardware, Concord, N.C.
Bethesda, MD