Author Topic: 302s and CE Blocks  (Read 4015 times)

ZLP955

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302s and CE Blocks
« on: March 06, 2014, 10:46:04 AM »
Although only Flint supplied production 302 blocks, could a 302 that was replaced under warranty be either a Flint or a Tonawanda block, or only Flint? I've re-read the CRG article on warranty engines, which indicates that CE V8 blocks came from both plants, but unsure if one did SB and the other BB blocks. I've never seen a Tonawanda CE small block myself (though by itself that means nothing), but have seen several Tonawanda CE big blocks.
Tim in Australia.
1969 04A Van Nuys Z/28. Cortez Silver, Dark Blue interior, VE3, Z21, Z23, D55/U17, D80, flat hood.
Sold at Clippinger Chevrolet in Covina, CA.
AHRA Formula Stock at Lions Dragstrip, NHRA E/MP at Pomona Raceway

jdv69z

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Re: 302s and CE Blocks
« Reply #1 on: March 06, 2014, 02:00:26 PM »
I believe that John Z stated in an earlier discussion on 302 engines, that certain machining processes required for the 302 were only done at Flint. Might have been head machining? All big blocks were done at Tonawanda, so CE blocks would have to come from there.
Jimmy V.

JohnZ

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Re: 302s and CE Blocks
« Reply #2 on: March 06, 2014, 06:14:04 PM »
All factory replacement and "CE" 302 small-blocks came from Flint V-8; Tonawanda didn't have the forged 11:1 pistons, "pink" floating-pin rods, "30-30" cam, solid lifters, 1178 crankshafts, and didn't have 2.02"/1.60" valves or the machining stations for them (including the unshrouding cut adjacent to the intake valve). Tonawanda only built hydraulic-lifter flat-top piston small-blocks with 1.94"/1.50" and smaller valves.

Tonawanda was the sole source for big-block engines.
'69 Z/28
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ZLP955

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Re: 302s and CE Blocks
« Reply #3 on: March 06, 2014, 06:27:40 PM »
Thanks once again guys, great help.
Tim in Australia.
1969 04A Van Nuys Z/28. Cortez Silver, Dark Blue interior, VE3, Z21, Z23, D55/U17, D80, flat hood.
Sold at Clippinger Chevrolet in Covina, CA.
AHRA Formula Stock at Lions Dragstrip, NHRA E/MP at Pomona Raceway