Author Topic: 69 Camaro 396 engine suffix help  (Read 733 times)

139tech

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69 Camaro 396 engine suffix help
« on: September 14, 2023, 02:42:29 PM »
Looking at buying a 69 Camaro SS but the engine suffix code is throwing me off. Can anyone tell if this code is legit, the J in JH looks a bit weird to me. Date lines up with the rest of the car and seller says it’s the original engine 396 375 with original heads and intake. I can’t make out the partial vin on the back of the engine but it’s there, some numbers I am able to make out and they match the vin. Thoughts? Thanks in advance
1969 Camaro SS
396 L78 M20

william

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Re: 69 Camaro 396 engine suffix help
« Reply #1 on: September 14, 2023, 03:08:06 PM »
The machining pattern on the deck looks milled, not broached as it should.

Could be it is the original engine, unfortunately decked during a rebuild.
Learning more and more about less and less...

boomer632

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Re: 69 Camaro 396 engine suffix help
« Reply #2 on: September 14, 2023, 03:45:12 PM »
Heres a true / legit 1969 JH stamp to compare to yours. There are differences so you can draw your own conclusion.
69 SS NOR 06A 711 57 57 X66 L78 M22 BU

David K

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Re: 69 Camaro 396 engine suffix help
« Reply #3 on: September 14, 2023, 04:16:33 PM »
Due diligence is now you mission.

bcmiller

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Re: 69 Camaro 396 engine suffix help
« Reply #4 on: September 14, 2023, 07:02:03 PM »
Block stamping is not the original one from the engine assembly plant.
Bryon / 1968 Camaro SS 396 coupe - now old school 468 big block
1967 Camaro RS/SS 396 coupe L35/M40 - 4 generation family project
Looking for 68 Camaro with body # NOR 181016

139tech

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Re: 69 Camaro 396 engine suffix help
« Reply #5 on: September 14, 2023, 09:41:24 PM »
Thanks for the guidance, much appreciated and agreed with all.
1969 Camaro SS
396 L78 M20