I cant figure out what year my block is or what it was in to start with was told it started life as a marine engine. the engine is a 396021F block but the pad on the left side of the block reads L1E on top 0705 below it and to the right inbetween is "S" anyone got any ideas

 

the L indicates a marine engine if memory serves me correctly


taken from olds faq


For marine engines, there is a number that begins with an "L". This strange "VIN derivative" (or engine unit number) number starting with L denotes a marine motor. This may appear something like "L8E00", where L = Marine or irrigation engine, 8 = 1968 model year, and E00 = engine serial number (although there are usually more digits in the serial number). There might also be a drill spot on the pad.




also I think that the "L" is marine irrigation and motorhome as well not positive tho

 

boy you guys are great ask a question, and a good answer within minutes thanks