correct dates for exhaust manifolds

[Jack O.]

I'm looking for BB exhaust manifolds with the correct date codes for my car. I have a '69 427 with a body build date of Nov 20 1968. My engine block is dated June 1968 but unfortunately has been decked so it does not have the assembly date on the pad. What range of dates would be valid on engine components such as exhaust manifolds?

Thanks in advance

[Joe L.]

Re: correct dates for exhaust manifolds

Jack-----

I would look for something in the range of 1 week to 6 months prior to the block casting date; this date should be very close to the engine assembly date. For an early 69 like yours, you will find the block casting date EITHER on the right side surface of the lower block (roughly to the rear of the starter) OR on the right side bellhousing flange, behind and below the rear of the right side cylinder head.

[John H.]

Re: correct dates for exhaust manifolds

Jack -

Your engine casting date is pretty close to the ragged edge for the allowable six-month "window" prior to your car's build date; your exhaust manifolds also need to be within that six-month window to get full credit. If they were dated up to six months prior to the June casting date on your block, they'd be almost a year prior to the car's build date, which is well outside the "window".