439 big block - is this stamp pad original?

**Gene M.** · December 28, 2012, 11:32 AM

Re: 439 big block - is this stamp pad original?

The pad would most likely appear just what it could end up as, a restamp.

**Michael G.** · December 28, 2012, 11:33 AM

Re: 439 big block - is this stamp pad original?

Originally posted by J Michael Wiater (41268)

I am considering the purchase of this 439 block but would like some opinions as to whether or not the engine ID stamp and broach marks appear to be original and how the block would fare on a judging field with the correct VIN stamp. Attached are the best photos I could get from the seller.
Michael

Assuming the casting #'s and date codes are correct for your car view the broach as good. However do see diagional swirl marks running left to right through the broach. Unsure to what degree marks would have during judging of the pad nonetheless will impact their decision 'does it appear as a typical'? Having the swirl marks won't help your case I believe. Are you contemplating having your partial VIN stamped into block?

**Michael J.** · December 28, 2012, 11:41 AM

Re: 439 big block - is this stamp pad original?

I agree those swirl marks on the right side of the pad are problematic, wonder if they ground off a partial VIN?

**Jimmy G.** · December 28, 2012, 02:40 PM

Re: 439 big block - is this stamp pad original?

No Comments on the 1 versus the usual I Unusual to say the least if it is real

**Dick W.** · December 28, 2012, 02:52 PM

Re: 439 big block - is this stamp pad original?

Maybe the "Master" will see this thread and comment. It appears to be the block from a crate, across the counter, 1968 engine. I have another similar block in my photo collection, but four months from this one so not a good comparison.

**J W.** · December 28, 2012, 03:20 PM

Re: 439 big block - is this stamp pad original?

Thanks for the input. To my eye, it looks like original broach marks under the file marks and swirls. Has anyone ever seen a correct, original block with an engine ID stamp other than CE and no VIN stamp?

i think 1 versus I has been documented in original engine ID date stamps.

**Dick W.** · December 28, 2012, 03:58 PM

Re: 439 big block - is this stamp pad original?

Originally posted by J Michael Wiater (41268)

Thanks for the input. To my eye, it looks like original broach marks under the file marks and swirls. Has anyone ever seen a correct, original block with an engine ID stamp other than CE and no VIN stamp?

i think 1 versus I has been documented in original engine ID date stamps.

Seen, and purchased, several across the counter engine assemblies, most had machine code, and of course no VIN

**Patrick B.** · December 28, 2012, 04:52 PM

Re: 439 big block - is this stamp pad original?

It looks like a block from an over the counter crate L-88. The use of all three types of 1's in use in 68 at Tonawanda speaks in favor of its originality. The grain looks original with some unfortunate scuffing.