This is probably a dead horse but I'm gonna beat it anyway.

I have a 64 Starfire that needs an engine. I have the original and can get it rebuilt to long block for $3125. I also found a complete 394 freshly rebuilt for $3600.

My shop manual is confusing it says the 3457 - 3600 - 3900 series are J5s. The online find is a J1. Other sources say the J1 is just for the Jetstar 1.

So I'm confused. Can I put an engine stamped J180997 in a 64 Starfire and still call it matched?

 

J indicates a high compression 4-barrel engine. A Starfire engine will have an S suffix letter on the engine ID number and that S is required for a numbers correct Starfire engine. That number is found on a machined pad on the LH cylinder head- the shop book will show you where.

I'm thinking that J1 code indicates an earlier engine. 59-62 394 have a large cast iron front cover with a small round water pump. 63-64 394 have an aluminum front cover and water pump which does not interchange with the cast iron piece. The earlier engine will fit fine, you just may get into some mess with the engine mount which is part of the front cover.

 

If you have the correct original engine and it can be rebuilt for less, why mess with an incorrect one? An added benefit would be knowing exactly what was done by what shop. Just my $.02

 

Well, the local will do a long block vs. the online engine is complete. So I still have to sort out water pump, intake, carb, etc... Also one of my cylinders will have to be sleeved and the crank may be toast. There is also the time factor, a 2 month rebuild vs. a weekend trip to KS.

 

IMO "matching numbers" implies the original, factory installed components. What you really mean is, is the online motor "correct" for the car ?

It seems to me that "matching" numbers is important to you, because that's why you are asking...so use the original (matching) even if it's more of a hassle in the sort term.

 

I think that is how i will go and that will give time for paint, body and interior work. I have never had an engine rebuilt, is 3125 reasonable? Should I be worried about sleeving a cylinder?