need help to figure out which year 401 i have

i have cj-7 with a 401 and the valve cover tag says it was built in 1969. not sure how this could be. did production start then and if so is this a prototype or is it the first version of the 1971. confused!!!

Hi, The 401 was not released until 71. What has probably happend is that someone has replaced the original valve covers with a pair off a 69 engine. There may be a casting date on the engine somewhere, but I am not sure where it is, but if I recall right, the date is cast into the head, between the valve springs, so you could get the date there if the heads are the original heads on that block. Kem

if you ever have to replace timing chain when taking off the timing case cover there will be a date in it mine said 71 72 and the org.color of my 401 was red not the amc blue red 401's was but used in internatal trucks

look at teh damper pullya nd count the bolts 71 and prior have 3 bolts 72ish and up have 4 , should also have a casting date on rear flange of engiene block{not certain about all or anny haveing a casting date, also take a valve cover off and hope the heads are the same year as the block ....as you will seee a casting date there too ...