how do I ID a buick engine?????

I got 2 buick engines with the new coe project and I would like to find out what they are, where do I look for the #s on the block, they appear to be late 60's early 70's but I don't know what size Thanks in advance. Ron....

 

Nailheads will be on the top right just in front of the valley pan.

 

It's NOT a nailhead, here is a picture of it

 

430?

 

here's a start

http://trishieldperf.com/engine_identification.htm

also look for a code "stamped on the right side of the engine block", 60s used two letters, 67 started with N, 68 with P, 69 with R, etc.

if you find some numbers stamped on it, post them, we should be able to look it up. But first look on the block for a big number cast into it like 350 or 400 or 430 or 455 or something, that would make it real easy!

 

thanks for that link, its a 1970 455 , now I'll have to pick up the other one and see what it is. Thanks again , Ron...

 

Man, those are torque monsters. A college friend had a '70 225 with the 455 that would get that big, heavy boat up to scary speed unbelievably fast.

 

The easy to find numbers Squirrel is referring to are cast on top of the block bellhousing.
The numbers are 1" tall and say 430 or 455.
Not sure about the 400, it may be bare.

There's also some cast in numbers under the starter.
About 3/4" tall, upside down and they also say 430, 455.

Be careful you don't have a 350.
They are very similar to the big blocks.
I think one quick way to tell them apart is that the 350 fan is centered on the engine, but I need to look at one to make sure.
The 430-455 fan is offset quite a bit to the left (drivers side in the US) and down low.

Even so, you can still use a 17" - 18" mechanical fan on most swaps.