1957 correct engine build-cast to VIN build date

[Todd H.]

Hi! This is my first post in a hobby I've been with for more than 40 years. Just bought '57 #972 which I think was built November 26 0r 27, 1956. The original engine is gone, and I'd like it to have a correctly cast/build dated engine. How far in advance were these engines cast and built at that point in the run? I tried a search for this and found nothing. Anyone have any early 997 heads? Thanks!

[Gary C.]

Re: 1957 correct engine build-cast to VIN build date

Todd, Glad to have you aboard and a big WELCOME to you! Recommend acquiring the 56-7 Judging Manual and Assembly Manual (AIM) from the NCRS Store on this web site or by calling 513-385-8526. You can search the Driveline On-Line for any parts you need, which is available from the main TDB menu above the forum. The TDB forum is for posting technical questions only. There's a Texas Chapter Member who has '57 #213 currently undergoing restoration. Will take a look at the cast date and post it here for you. Also, best to use the little year icons with your posts as they make it easier for future searches. Good luck, Gary....

[Steven B.]

Re: 1957 correct engine build-cast to VIN build date

Hi Todd! Congratulations on the '57! My '57 was assembled on or about 12/13/56 and my block and heads all cast in November. They are all original to the car.

NCRS members and advertisers would be my first choice to find the parts. Hemmings has a couple of advertisers for blocks and heads, also.

Good Luck!

Steve

[John H.]

Re: 1957 correct engine build-cast to VIN build date

Anyone have any early 997 heads? Thanks!

Todd -

Welcome aboard! Here's all you'll need once you locate some 997 heads.

[Joseph T.]

Re: 1957 correct engine build-cast to VIN build date

Hi! This is my first post in a hobby I've been with for more than 40 years. Just bought '57 #972 which I think was built November 26 0r 27, 1956. The original engine is gone, and I'd like it to have a correctly cast/build dated engine. How far in advance were these engines cast and built at that point in the run? I tried a search for this and found nothing. Anyone have any early 997 heads? Thanks!

Todd

My 57 is #775..there is an aricle about it in the just now arriving restorer magazine. Your car should have the short rain gutters on top of the door pillars, and no relief hole in the gas filler neck compartment etc. as an early car.

Did you get a hardtop with the car?

Joe

[Todd H.]

Re: 1957 correct engine build-cast to VIN build date

Yes, I got the hardtop. I'll have to check the other features you mentioned. Years ago I owned #569(FI) and #561(250hp FI powerglide). This thing about the cost of 997 heads is discouraging(that picture above is not far off), though I've been familiar with the value of rarity in the Corvette hobby for a long time. I've already been advised to beware of the counterfeits.

[Joseph T.]

Re: 1957 correct engine build-cast to VIN build date

Yes, I got the hardtop. I'll have to check the other features you mentioned. Years ago I owned #569(FI) and #561(250hp FI powerglide). This thing about the cost of 997 heads is discouraging(that picture above is not far off), though I've been familiar with the value of rarity in the Corvette hobby for a long time. I've already been advised to beware of the counterfeits.

Todd

The reason I asked if you received the hardtop is that when the hardtops were made the manufacturer placed a company label on the underside of the hardtop. It is reported that in 56/57 the St.Louis factory line worker wrote the last 4 digits of the intended cars VIN# on this label prior to installing the hard top headliner.

I have what I believe to be the original hardtop to my car #775 and the hardtop has the original headliner but I am not ready to tear out the headliner to check the label. Maybe one day when I decide to restore the car.

You will find the the 997 heads if patient. A good place is the swap meet at Kissimmee in January. Lots of good stuff still surfaces there especially if you put the word out that you need a specific item. Also place an ad in the driveline so others members see what you need.

Joe

[Gary C.]

Re: 1957 correct engine build-cast to VIN build date

Todd, #213 engine is at the machinist. Will post all of the numbers when returned. Flint heads only or Corvette had a single digit year date code, a 6 for your car. Tonawanda heads have 2 digit year date, code as in 56. Flint head surfaces where the tower type markings are were machined smooth where as the Tonawanda heads are rough like sand cast. Gary....

[Garry B.]

Re: 1957 correct engine build-cast to VIN build date

Todd, I once owned #903 with original engine. Casting date was J316 (October 31, 1956 Halloween) stamp pad/engine assembly FII09 (November 9, 1956) estimated build date was November 20th.

8 working days between casting and assembly (according to 1956 calendar)

8 working days between assembly and car build (ditto)

16 days from engine casting to car build.

Best of luck.
Garry
#18531