Chevy Suffix Codes - What Are They And How Do I Use Them?

GM, or chevy suffix codes are a very misunderstoodThe classic car restoration enthusiast can use these
part of engine identification, and just as under utilized.suffix codes in combination with information provided
Very little thorough information has been available toin Chevy engine casting number guides to ensure his
the average enthusiast because GM never releasedrestoration is as close to original specs as possible.
the chevy suffix codes to the consumer. GMBetween 1962 and 1968, the VIN number of the
dealerships were likely the only ones who new whatvehicle matches the number stamped on the engine,
the chevy engine suffix code meant, until recently.followed by the suffix code. Single suffix code letters
Chevy suffix code decoder books have beenwere used until 1964 and 2 letter suffix codes were
assembled through the hard work of one man,used until 1969, three letters are used from 1970 until
whose father instilled the importance of tracking thenow. There a some exceptions to the number of
chevy engine suffix codes at a very young age.letters in chevy engine suffix codes in each range of
These decoders are his life's work.years.
What are they you ask? Chevy engine suffix codesEven if your classic Chevy is missing the original
are a series identification numbers stamped into theengine, it is still possible to use the suffix code
Chevy engine block that represent the combinedlocated on other parts of the car to determine which
production number of an engine, equipment optionsengine you should look for as a replacement.
and ratings for the engine as well as the option seriesBetween the combinations of the Chevy engine
of car it was built for. The suffix code is made up ofsuffix code, engine casting numbers, and engine
the letters trailing the numbers stamped into thecasting dates, you should be able to locate the
block. The number portion of the stamping is thecorrect engine for your classic car restoration, even if
serial number of the engine.you may never locate the engine with the serial
The Chevy engine suffix codes provide somenumber matching engine stamping.
valuable information such as:Here's a good example of how I did it. I have a 1964
- The car model or truck.Impala that did not have the original engine, but I
- The year or span of years the suffix code wasknew it originally had a 283. I managed to find a 283
used.with the "D" suffix code and a casting date of 1964
- The cubic inch displacement of the engine.on it. The serial number doesn't match, but I know
- The horse power rating the engine was built to.the engine at least belonged in a 64 impala. I probably
- Transmission type used with the engine.couldn't hope for any better than that.
- Regular Production Option (RPO) the engine was aIf you are on the hunt for an original engine, the
part of.Chevy engine suffix code decoder is a must have.
- Intake type such as 2 barrel carb, 4 barrel,You can use it combined with a cowl tag decoder,
aluminum etc.Chevy engine casting number decoder, and a model
- Emissions standards the engine might have beenspecific factory parts number guide. This is certainly a
built to meet.winning set of reference books for the classic car
And any other descriptions unique to that enginerestorer.
suffix code.