Olds 455

Hello. I am restoring a 79 Trans Am and found that it has a Olds 455 in it. I am trying to find the year. My guess is a 68 as I found that stamped on the back of the motor but not sure. Here are the codes:

Block 396021F

Heads E 403 686

Any help is great appreciated

Dave

Have you tried Googling Olds casting numbers?

According to Car Craft Magazine, Junkyard Engine Spotter's Guide, it is pretty easy to find the model years of the 455 engine using the casting number. The following is a quote from their website:

The casting number on Olds engines is located at the front of the block on top of the timing gear housing. A nine-digit engine ID code is stamped on a pad directly below the Number One cylinder. The first digit is a 3, signifying the Oldsmobile division, followed by a single digit for the year, e.g. 2=1972, a letter designating the assembly plant, and a six-digit serial number that will match the VIN if the engine is original to the car. If you're searching for an Olds 455, here are the casting numbers to look for: 396021F ('68-'71); 396021Fa ('72-'76); and 231788L (service replacement).

Using this source I'd say your engine is a '68-'71. I hope this helps.