As the title states. I'm in the process of confirming matching numbers on a creampuff Vista Cruiser 455, but I absolutely cannot find this 3-character code. I have found the 396021F block code, but the 30M code does not precede it as some sites claim.

Every Oldsmobile website has conflicting info on where exactly this code is, and since the car is out of state, I'm having someone else take all the photos and send to me so I need very clear instructions.

Can someone please snap a picture of their code so I have an idea of where it's at and what it looks like, and show how/where to find it? Thanks a bunch.

 

Welcome to CO. Not the best pic, but this is where to look. Just below #1 cyl.

 

Thanks.

Where the "G" is in the photo, correct? The most important thing I need is really the zero out of the 30M code to confirm it's a block from 1970, but I don't see a 3-character code in your photo.

 

Here's a few more views, but as trublu said its kind of hard to see when in the car. The power steering pump arm is in the way so it may take a mirror and flashlight to actually see it. John

PA221822.jpg

PA221821.jpg

P4210521.jpg

P1010033.jpg

 

YES. Thank you so much. You're literally the only person on the internet to provide photographic proof of where this code actually is. Thanks so much.

 

I now see the code in your photo after having a frame of reference. Thanks a bunch.

 

Be aware that the nine-character VIN derivative on the block needs to match the VIN of the car. That means that the first character on the VIN derivative needs to match the first character of the VIN, and the last eight of the VIN derivative also need to match the last eight of the VIN. It's all nine, not just the "30M". 30M only means that the block is from a 1970 Lansing built Olds, it does not mean it is original to the car unless the last six also match. 396021F is only the casting number, not the VIN derivative and was used on blocks from 1968-1974.

 

Thanks for the info. I double checked all numbers and it's a 100% numbers matching car.

 

No problem. Be sure to post some pics when you get it home, good luck!

 

Hey Joe, or anyone else who knows...is this in the same location on a 1970 W30? I didn't see it there but maybe I need better lighting. Thanks!

 

Found my answer: http://www.supercarsunlimited.com/info/tech/id/vin.htm

 

Got another question for this...

I have taken many pics but the vin derivative stamp just isn't coming out how I would like. I have verified that it matches the car. But is extremely rusty under there and would like some better pics. I've noticed that some members above with their photos have those spots extremely clean. What can I clean it with while it is still in the car? Hard to see, hard to reach...hard to photograph.

 

I just use a stiff wire brush, maybe a little acetone or gasoline on a rag after that.

 

Carb cleaner, chemtool, household scotch brite like you use in the kitchen.

 

I just cleaned mine by cutting a small patch out of a green 3M scuff pad and soaking it with WD-40. After scuffing it some with this, I then degreased it by spraying carb cleaner on it. I then held my Droid down alongside/behind the PS pump and below the alternator and took pictures until I got a few that showed the stamping that I wasn't able to see directly by eye. Using different lights from different angles really helps with this as a slight change in light color, angle, or intensity makes a huge difference in readability.


Block Tab 2.jpg

 

Thanks everyone! Back out to the car. Glad it is only a few steps away.