1965 Impala BBC Stocker Update

[Greg Reimer 7376]

I've got 3 2 bolt main 396 blocks out in my store room. I'll look at and write down the numbers and we'll ID what they are. You got me curious.Isn't there a grooved rear cam bearing available to enable the use of the later cam in the early block? I know that a 409 has a grooved rear journal on the camshaft itself.That must be where they got that from on the early 396.

[Greg Reimer 7376]

Two of the three blocks are # 3855961. Both have fully grooved rear cam bearings.The other block is #3969854. It has also a later screw on oil filter,the other two have canister type filters.

[Alan Nyhus]

3855961 blocks are '65-'66 396. Interestingly, some '66 427's also had this casting
number.

3969854 is a '69 396 and was also used in the '70-'72 402's.

[Dwight Southerland]

In my records, I have recorded three 961 2-bolt blocks that sonic checked over .250" thick cylinder walls.

[Greg Reimer 7376]

I remember reading about the 396 375 horse 4 bolt main block being "dual purpose,"that meant, 396 or 427. It had some massively thick walls, in one case, one was bored out to 4.3150 and used a standard 409 ring. Imagine a 440 inch 396 coming at you! The later block I have was a 70 402. It had 290 small plug heads, the flat intake, and a cast crank.

[Dwight Southerland]

I don't have much good to say about the later blocks.

[impstocker]

Been a long time coming, near the finish line. Over 3 years now, best I can do on a limited budget. 396 Shortblock done, finish heads. Then driveshaft has to be made.

Plan is August

Will Lamprecht
Div 1 I/SA 65 Impala 396/325