I based my info on my GM Parts Manual and all 1969 396's have two letter codes (12 in all) and the engine is listed as a "396"--8 CYLINDER; all 70 396 engines have three letter codes (9 in all) and are still listed as "396"--8 CYLINDER, as well as four engines (w/three letter codes) designated as "400"--8 CYLINDER. Of the four 400's listed, 2 are small block (w/2-bbl carb) and 2 are big block (w/4-bbl carb). 1971 is the first year the 396 size is NOT listed as a big block where the 400 (4-bbl) is.
The GM Restoration Kits I have list only a 396 for 1969 but 396,402 for 1970. It appears there were still 396 sized engines floating around in 1970 as the 70 kit is dated September, 1969. Here's a confusing bit of info. Under the 396 engine piston assembly it shows: 70 All (396) (exc. Sp H/Per.) (L.H.) 3969981 Under the 400 engine piston assembly it shows: 70 All w/4BC (400) (L.H.) 3969981 - with a note saying, "These parts are used on models built with 2nd design 400 C.I.D. engine assys. These engines can be identified by the letter "C" preceding the existing suffix identification letters." Same piston listed for two engines of two different bores. The note would verify what ChevelleYenko said about 2 and 3 letter suffix codes but no 2 letter code ever shows up on 70 396/402 engines in the GM book. Maybe that's one of the reasons I didn't last a year behind a dealer parts counter and went back to work for a regular parts store. Life was so much easier there. LOL! Dale ----------------------------------------------------- To Unsubscribe please visit www.chevelles.net/list.html To start a new topic, send mail to: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
