Hi Guys - I have a 1969 Camaro with an L89 396 with a KE suffix. When I researched this engine it says that there is no documented KE suffixed engines in the Camaro although it was planned to be used with a special heavy duty clutch. These KE engines were supposed to be restamped with a CE suffix. However, this is a protecto plate car which shows that it was a KE engine. Haggarty confirmed my vin to be a true L89 car as well. I have heard of other guys that have seen this rare KE suffix in a 69 camaro as well. Supposedly GM made the engines but aborted the special double disc heavy duty clutch at the last moment. Could this one have made it through with the KE engine not restamped? Appreciate any insight from the CRG team on this topic.
Haggarty can't confirm any cars are true L89.
If you want your engine stamping and POP to be evaluated, you can post pics here. Or you can email them to me and I can post if you want.
This will probably be moved shortly to a section other than Orphans.
Sure would like to see the protect-o-plate with this suffix code and then match up the partial VIN on the block. Would like also to see data plate on firewall. Been looking for years for a 396 that had this KE suffix code on the front pad. Last seen in the mid 90's in the correct vehicle that my original engine went into. But at the time wasn't knowledgeable in engine suffix codes. So, big mistake on my ignorant part, let the vehicle get away. A decade later found out what the KE code truly was. Need to contact you, as I am trying to self document the L89 cars still in existence. Got a good start.
Protecto Plate and Trim Tag
These are the best photos I could get under the alternator.
You aren't going to like the answer. Sorry.
Prior sale of 124379N569071:
https://bid.richmondauctions.com/lots/view/4-HRDM9F/1969-chevrolet-camaro-ss-clone
I've had a picture of that repro POP for 10+ years.
Here's a pad picture.
Production total for KE = 0. Doesn't mean there aren't some now out there, like this one.
Thanks for the help guys. Glad I did not pay originality price! But, I still love the car as it is well done. CRG is a great place to get such details. Thanks again.