Quote: Scott that makes sense but I can't recall ever seeing a '69 block done like that? Here's one I saw on ebay a while back. The casting date was 11 15 68 but I can't see how 1 2 8 could work out to Jan 2 68? I see the "S" 440 the W ater T est, the "A". I totally agree with your "*A picture of the pad would be easier to decode."
MikeR
I would decode the block pad you posted as follows:
S= Service replacement 440= Cubic inches 1= January 28= 28th 2= Assembled 2nd shift WT= Water Tested block (not typical on a production line installed 440, but typical of service replacements) A= Possibly .020 oversize cyl. bores but not limited to that, could have also been some type of assembly inspection stamp.
What would remain a mystery would be the year it was actually assembled, the information on the (not shown) rivoted on tag could answer that question.
Block casting 11/15/68 = Hey, day before my 4th birthday!