I am in need of a engine for my 72 olds. I found a 350 rocket for sale. The seller has listed it has a 1970 engine and is asking $400. Do ya think its worth it? How can I tell what year the engine is? Thanks in advance.

 

Use this information from our site. It will help you out. I don't believe it is '70 vintage though.

 

Thanks Oldsguy. How can you tell its not vintage?

 

I agree with oldsguy, HEI distributor (could have been added) and EGR

Pat

 

Does it run, or is it going to be a total rebuild?

 

Mid 70s valve covers nd new alt style as well

 

73-74 only I think.

 

This appears to be a frankenmotor, as there are parts from various years. 1973-74 valve covers, 1973-up intake, HEI, late 1970s alternator bracket, aftermarket carb. Check the VIN derivative and block and head casting numbers. From the photos there's no way to tell what year this is.

 

I'd make a wager that if you
posted the head numbers, timing
pad numbers, and the vin pad #'s it make come up
a 68-72, as far as the block and heads anyway.

 

Also the drivers side exhaust manifold is not from a 1970 A body .......

 

Curious that the cross over port on the right side manifold is pointed up instead of down.

 

Didn't notice the weird crossover port.....What body style would use that type of exhaust configuration?

 

That's not a "crossover port", that's the outlet. It's a Toro manifold.

 

I love this forum. Thanks for all the info guys. The seller said it was ready to run. I have not seen the engine in person. I was thinking about making the trip to go see it Sunday. But also given all the info on here I am also thinking about passing on this one.

 

Ask the guy what heads are on it. If it's really a 70, then they should be the 6 heads. My guess is they are the later 8 heads.

 

ditto what VV said

OTOH make a call and have the # on the corner of the head related to you.

If it has #6 heads, it's worth a bit more attention.
If it's a runner #8 headed 1973 engine, which the top end looks like, still not a bad base to start with.

Depends on your budget and needs.