Found this k frame in my stash and wondered if it is small block or big block?It has a skid plate.It has 2230 stamped so I think it is a 71.Thanks in advance

the mounts are the same big VS. small block

….. but the only '71 E-body to get those mounts & skid plate is 440+6

How do you differentiate between an E and B body ?

On a 1970, a b-body will have the steering box angled more toward the drivers frame rail, I assume to align the steering wheel with the dash that is angled in a 1970 b-body, straight dash in a e-body. It gets hard if there is not a coin welded to the front with the last 2 part # digits. If you put a bolt in steer box mount and compare side to side it is plain as day. In 1971, without a coin, hard to tell.

I had heard something about the steering box angle but it was explained to me that the angle was relatively to the ground - the B Body was more raised while the E body was less raised - the person explained because the B body dash was higher relative to the floor board than an E Body.

Now I’m really confused.

I've also heard that it was the vertical angle difference, not sideways.

There are pics in a previous post of an e-body k in a 1970 b, steering box is about 3/8 further to right of framerail, and steering coupler has an angle on it when you do that. It will work but is not right. I noticed it when looking at a 1970 b,with windshield and engine out and the hood off, plain as day you notice the steering wheel over to the left, so it lines up with the angle of the dash. The height looks the same, and would cause oil pan and bump steer issues if it was raised. Btw left and right is as you are sitting in car.

71 B Body is the same and 440 and 440-6 cars would have had them.

All 62-72 B and E body V8 K frames fit big or small blocks. Having a skid plate makes it a 440 K frame.
The E body and 71-72 B body do have a different angle to the steering box. This can be seen at a glance if you have a 70 B body K frame and a E body k frame side by side. The E body type has a different looking reinforcement plate.
Yes, the steering box angle changed both vertically and side to side. That is why E bodies and 71-72 B bodies use that “bent”looking Center link.
I installed a complete 72 B body K frame in a 66 B body once with no issues. Perhaps not the ideal angles for the coupler, but installed and operated fine.

Your K frame will be from a 70-71 440 E body, or a 71-72 440 B body.