matching numbers

[alson81]

just bought 81 vette. where exactly would i find engine #s to see if it is the original motor in this car

 

[SVO]

On the passenger side of the engine, there is a pad on the block by the front end of the head. Should be two sets of numbers set there. One set of numbers will correspond with the last digits of your VIN tag numbers, the second set will be the engine build date and engine code. The VIN numbers typically will be smaller than the engine code numbers/letters.

 

[bill81vette]

1st welcome to CAC!!!!!
You may have to struggle a little to them as the AIR pump and the a/c are in the way!!!

 

[6880 Mike]

On the passenger side of the engine, there is a pad on the block by the front end of the head. Should be two sets of numbers set there. One set of numbers will correspond with the last digits of your VIN tag numbers, the second set will be the engine build date and engine code. The VIN numbers typically will be smaller than the engine code numbers/letters.

SVO nailed it. Engine suffix codes for the 81s are ZDA for the 4 speed; ZDD for the automatic; ZDC and ZDB for California cars.

Most 81s were assembled at St. Louis; some 81s were assembled at the new plant in Bowling Green. VIN will tell you where your car was assembled.

Have you touched base with the L-81 Registry here on the forum?