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I was wondering if anyone could help me in deciphering some casting numbers? I have a 1953 3600, which I believe came stock with a 216, correct? I looked around the block but wasn't able to find the casting number. I pulled the valve cover and found GM 3835517 on the head near the front of the engine. The valve cover has two acorn shape nuts holding it in place but the belt is measured right at 7/16ths of an inch. I thought the 216s had wider belts, or am I mixing up my specs? The VIN is J53K021170. Could anyone tell me what the last six numbers mean? Thanks for any input.

Yep, the 3600 series (3/4 ton) came with the 216. The block casting number is on the passenger side of the block, down low (almost to the pan) just in front of the distributor. I don't know if inliners.org has head casting numbers, but you might check. I'm sure someone on the 'Bolt will be able to decipher those for you.

On the VIN,

J = 3600
53 = year
K = Kansas City, MO assembly plant

Your last six numbers are the Plant Production Number, with the first truck built at a given plant receiving the number 001001. So your truck was number 20,169 off of the line.

All of the VIN info comes from Don Moen\'s 47-54 Serial Number page

Thanks for the info Jeff. I have a feeling that is it under all the built up grease that tends to predominate the unrestored ranks. By the way, looking at your truck model...what was the difference b/t the 3600 and your 3604?

3600 is the 3/4 ton series, which encompasses all models; e.g. pickup box, stakebed, suburban, canopy, etc. All 3/4 ton trucks are 3600s. 3604 is a 3/4 ton truck with a pickup box. If you had a platform bed it would be a 3608. I have most of the model numbers on my web page . Click on the Advance Design Trucks menu and then choose Models.

HTH