Can the build date for a CE block or engine predate the build date of the car?

Well, all I know is in the spring of 1969, there were 3 69 Z28's in a Van Nuys Chevy dealership that had blown engines and waited almost 4 weeks for new motors. So based on that, it doesn't seem like CE motors were built and warehoused. It seems like the order was put in for a specific short block configuration from the Flint plant and then the cars just sat and waited for them to come in.

alan

Where are you finding the build date on a CE block? They do often have a code stamped at the starter flange that gives the month and year of plant assembly but other than that only the cast date of the block shows its age. A CE block should always be dated after the body build date if you look at it from a conceptional view point. If you want more judgeing points a CE block that is dated prior to the body build is better suited.....imagine that :)