Production - Engine Identification
V8 Engine Identification (Post VF)
By David Mizen
The engine number can be found on the left side of the motor above the starter motor.
First Digit:
All V8's fitted to V and C model vehicles and small block "Phoenix and Dodge trucks have an "A" prefix.
Second Digit:
The second digit refers to the size
| DIGIT | ENGINE SIZE |
| 2 | 318 |
| 3 | 340 |
| 4 | 360 |
Third Digit:
The third digit refers to the performance level
| DIGIT | PERFORMANCE LEVEL |
| 2 | Standard (2 BBL) |
| 3 | High Performance (4 BBL) |
Fourth Digit:
The fourth digit refers to the gearbox type
| DIGIT | GEARBOX TYPE |
| 1 | Auto |
| 4 | Manual |
Fifth Digit:
The fifth character is the year of manufacture.
| DIGIT | YEAR OF MANUFACTURE |
| A | 1970 |
| B | 1971 |
| C | 1972 |
| D | 1973 |
| E | 1974 |
| F | 1975 |
| G | 1976 pre July |
| H | 1976 post July |
| I | (skipped) |
| J | 1977 |
| ...and so on... | |
Remaining Digits:
The remainder of the characters denote the sequential build number
To make life a little easier we now have an online function to decode these engine numbers for you - try our V8 VG-CM engine decoder.