VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND NEWER 1961-1964 Strange Date Code

I've got an original '61 283 Power Pack Engine with the engine number F0502EB (May 2nd, and if original like I believe it is, 1961). Now, I decided to check on the Date Code on the back of the engine and I got a surprise. I've never seen a date code like this before. The entire date code reads "1". No letters, no other numbers, just "1". I'm going to say that the 1 is for 1961 but what would you all say. Has anyone out there ever seen just a single digit like this one has?

Any info would be appreciated.

Bill

Hi Bill,
I remember years ago,Jersey Late Greats,after compiling a multi-year extensive/exhaustive resarch project on 58-64's, mentioned seeing this occasional,incomplete rear engine code stamping on the 61-63.This happened infrequently,but did occur as you see.The front engine pad was the primary pad during assembly so those were almost always correct and complete<vbg>.They felt it was simply occasional human error.And you are correct,the number 1 at rear of block does designate that your engine was scheduled to be used during the 1961 model year,which it was<g>.Hope this helps,Jim

Thanks Jim, appreciate that info. I've got this posted on 3 different Chevy sites and have got very little response on it. I guess most people either have never heard of it or just don't know much about it. Thanks again.

Bill