The number we really need to see is only partially visible. The stamped (not cast) number on the machined pad just behind the distributor will be more helpful in making an exact ID of the original application of the engine, as casting numbers have a tendency to apply across several production years and different original installations. An original equipment engine in a 53 3100 would have been a 216 with Babbit connecting rods, and the engine in your pics appears to be a later model 235. Jerry
"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt! There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!
The number we really need to see is only partially visible. The stamped (not cast) number on the machined pad just behind the distributor will be more helpful in making an exact ID of the original application of the engine, as casting numbers have a tendency to apply across several production years and different original installations. An original equipment engine in a 53 3100 would have been a 216 with Babbit connecting rods, and the engine in your pics appears to be a later model 235. Jerry
Jerry it's really hard to read with the starter in the way. My best guess - CON4 L234 3836233
Sorry I misread your post...here is the "stamped" serial number - 0201682F55
Hopefully that helps!
Last edited by Challenger Pilot; 11/07/202211:23 PM. Reason: Clarity
Kevin 1951 Chevy 3100 work truck Follow this saga in Project Journal Photos 1929 Ford pickup restored from the ground up. | 1929 Ford Special Coupe (First car) Busting rust since the mid-60's If you're smart enough to take it apart, you darn well better be smart enough to put it back together.
I don't have a reference table handy since the computer with that info in the "favorites" section has a bum power supply. The F55 suffix of the stamped number is what will most likely identify the engine's original application. Have fun! Jerry
"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt! There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!
As far as tracing a vehicle’s history, you’re probably out of luck. I know the original owner of my truck because it was orange and has a brass repair tag on the valve cover that says “Alaska Road Commission”. I was also able to talk with a previous owner as I had an 80’s registration document in the glove box. Other than that, DMV won’t release previous registration info because of privacy issues. Your state may differ. It won’t hurt to ask them though.
Kevin 1951 Chevy 3100 work truck Follow this saga in Project Journal Photos 1929 Ford pickup restored from the ground up. | 1929 Ford Special Coupe (First car) Busting rust since the mid-60's If you're smart enough to take it apart, you darn well better be smart enough to put it back together.
Careful ………….. if it ain’t leaking it’s out of oil!
Martin '62 Chevy C-10 Stepside Shortbed (Restomod in progress) '47 Chevy 3100 5 Window (long term project) ‘65 Chevy Biscayne (Emily) ‘39 Dodge Business Coupe (Clarence) “I fought the law and the law won" now I are a retired one! Support those brave men/women who stand the "Thin Blue Line"! Hug a cop! USAF 1965-1969 Weather Observation Tech (I got paid to look at the clouds)
Your missing one last letter after the F55 that would tell you what the engine came in...post a picture of the stamped number...
Mike B
Hey Mike, I'm out on the road so I can't get another picture. This is the one I had before, but I don't see anything after the F55. I'll look again when I get back home.