L78 engine code help

[birdman]

I have a late build date of 09E (sept 69)  X22 4-speed camaro that is missing the original block. I found a 3969854 4 bolt dated H 31 9, the block has beed decked clean. The heads are 3964291 square ports dated I 10 9 & I 12 9. Does any one know if the late built camaros use the JH code disginating a 396 CI or did they change over to the 402 CI with a C - - code.

[JohnZ]

Page 139 of Jerry's book indicates that many late 854 blocks (402's) used the "C" prefix ahead of the usual two-character suffix.

[KurtS]

That might be in Jerry's book, but Camaro continued using the 2 digit code from what I've seen. I've only heard of one or two exceptions and have not seen pics of those pads.....

[birdman]

Being that late in the year and the fact that Chevelles & Nova,s were being produced for the 1970 model year would they have changed over to code CKO which  I believe is correct for 1970 396/375 HP ??

[RickH]

1969 Camaro never used the three letter engine designation.

Rick H.