What do you guys think a 69 396/375 hp JH block with crank and pistons is worth? I have an opportunity to buy one, and if the price is right, I just may have to have it.
Thank you

The value can vary greatly due to many different reasons. First of all, make sure it's a Camaro block and not a Nova. The 396/375 SHP 1969 Novas also got a JH block when it was equipped with a 4-speed transmission. If there is a 'W' in the stamped VIN preceeding the last 6 digits, it's from a Nova built at Willow Run, Michigan plant. There should be an 'L' or 'N' for a true Camaro block which will bring a good bit more money. Also, value of this short block assembly will be much lower if it's missing the original tufftrided 3882842 crankshaft and/or the original 3/8" dimple connecting rods. Some people think the forged steel '6223' cranks came in these engines and 7/16" rods, they didn't. Any previous oversize boring (.030, .040, .060 etc.) will also hurt the value. The pistons really don't matter because you will need to put new ones in if you're going to rebuild this engine right anyway, not to mention you'll need to put a lower dome in unless you're wanting to run race fuel for an 11 to 1 engine. Also check the bottom of the cylinder walls for any signs of previous broken rods that have knocked chunks out of the block. Also check for spun main bearings. Inspect the block for any obvious freeze cracks if it clean enough to do so. I learned a long time ago not to pay big bucks for an engine like this that's sold 'as is' without the owner agreeing to let me dissasemble it for inspection prior to paying him. If the guy is not willing to let you do this, beware. An engine laying in someone's shop floor can have all kinds of internal problems that are not visible without taking it apart and proper inspection. If this was just another old cheep 350 SB I wouldn't worry about it that much. But for what you're probably going to pay for this BB, be careful. You could end up with a very expensive boat anchor. Just my 2 cents worth. :)

The guy said that there's a T then 4 digits, then the JH. He also said that it's dated G7? Is it possible this could be a 67 vette 427/435?
Thanks again fellow TC members

can you post all the numbers>??

Copy and paste this link in your address bar and look at this picture. I used this Nova block as an example because I really don't want my Camaro vin number all over the internet.
http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p53/X22D80/HPIM2451.jpg
Notice in the series of 9 characters on the right that the 3rd character from the left is a 'W'. If you're going to pay big bucks for a Camaro SHP block make sure it has an 'N' or 'L' in that space. Later 69' blocks will have these 9 characters stamped on the side of the block at the oil filter bose. Sometimes they can be extreamly difficult to read. :beers:

I'm waiting for more info and some pics. What's a ballpark # if it is a 69 Camaro block with the correct crank. Thanks again guys

$1200 to $1500.
James