Does this look

like an original block stamping for a 1970 W30. The number matches the VIN, but the positioning of the last digit looks suspect to me. What have I got? Sorry for the dim lighting. TIA!

 

I've seen factory stamps that look like that.

 

Would I be less than ethical (in your opinion calling it a numbers matching car as far as the engine is concerned?

 

That block is numbers matching if it matches the last 7 digits of your VIN

 

"Numbers matching" car means the engine and transmission match the VIN derivetive. At this point you have a car with the original engine block.

 

All NINE characters in the VIN derivative need to match the VIN. The first character in VIN derivative will match the first in the VIN, and the last eight in the VIN derivative will match the last eight in the VIN.

 

That's where I am on it. I know the rear end is not original. It's a 12 bolt GM, and not a 12 bolt Olds.

 

I believe a Canadian built 70 cutlass that was ordered with a HD rear came with a chevy 12 bolt. Was your car built in Canada?

 

His car was assembled in Lansing