Sirs.... I have come across a short block with the following numbers. Block casting number 3970010, date code I 2 0, and the pad is stamped CEA194176. The 7 and the 6 appear to be hand stamped as the first seven digits are perfectly aligned and the 7 and the 6 are not evenly spaced and crooked. I have seen several cars advertised as having "CE replacement blocks". Can anything be decoded from these numbers on the pad of a CE block?? Thanks.

Here is a link to the Camaro Research Group website that talks about CE Counter Exchange warranty decoding: http://www.camaros.org/engine.shtml#ReplacementEngines
The 010 block is a excellent casting, usually have high tin and nickle content on the early blocks, you should see the 010 020 stamped somewhere, maybe both on the front or back of the block for the mix of tin and nickle content, I have seen these blocks in both 2 and 4 bolt mains. Your date code of I20 would indicate a casting date of Sept 2, 1970, hope this helps you out.

It was assembled in January, 1971 (the "A" after the "CE" is January, and the "1" is 1971). "CE" replacement blocks are quite common in Camaros and Corvettes - many were scattered early in their lives and replaced by dealers. They were supplied either as short blocks (to re-use all the bolt-ons), or as "fitted blocks", which was the block and pistons - which one was used depended on the extent of damage, although I think most were short blocks - when they let go, generally the crank and rods were toast, along with the block. Other than the pad stamp, they are identical to the engine they replaced.

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JohnZ
'69 Z28 Fathom Green

Thanks for the information... This one must have been purchased as a short block. It does have a forged crank, but I havent pulled the pan or anything to look further. The seller says they bought it back in the day and had intended to use it in a hot rod pick-up truck project. Looks like a good deal. Thanks again!!