Re: V-8 head part nbr vs cast nbr

Posted by Owen_Dyneto On 2008/9/17 11:01:51

Unfortunately my Service Counselors are the compendium published by PAC, and they (thoughtlessly) omitted the dates and numbers. But it specifically says its related only to the 320 5540 model engines. I've always assumed, perhaps incorrectly, that it was a manufacturing-driven economy as the machining of the dome couldn't have been an inexpensive operation. The change also corresponded to changes in spark plug specifications, distributor and vacuum advance changes, and carburetor changes, all identified in the same SC. The engine #s that it identifies the changes as occuring at are fairly early in the 55 run, so I don't think it was in anticipation of the 56 engines. I've never seen a 352 or 374 engine with what would appear to be a machined compression dome so perhaps they were cast from the get-go?

Jack, you've seen so many 56 engines, can you verify that last digit on the casting number, "6" or "8"? I've used a magnifying glass and even so, it's pretty hard to be absolutely positive.

EDIT: Adding image from SC

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