I am running an '82 El Camino in which the previous owner installed a 350.
I am trying to identify the engine but cannot decipher these numbers:
(from the boss behind the alternator)
1M 1003
8VP
I do not recognize these as Chevrolet engine numbers.
Can any one please help identify this engine?
Thanks in advance, -- Rob in Reno.

Rob, Can you wire brush the area and see if there is another set of numbers? The ones you quote look like either partial VIN numbers or possibly crate motor numbers. GM often placed a partial VIN above or below the block casting numbers.

Ike, thanks for the reply.
I did clean the boss and these are all the numbers. I was also told this is a "crate" motor. Am I able to deduce any more specific information about this motor than that from these numbers, like who is manufacturer? Is it actually a 350? Are there any "special" features?
(please excuse my ignorance, I am new to 4 wheelers!)
-- Rob in Reno.

Rob, This is really a stretch with the numbers, but it COULD BE built in Mexico, October 3, 1978. The nearest numerical sequencing I could find made it a crate engine for Taxi service, but that is still a stretch. Other identifying numbers may be extremely hard to locate or read with the mill installed. If you ever pull it for any reason check the rear deck near the bell housing for a numerical sequence with 6-7-or 8 numbers. Also might have the size indicated in liters, ie. 5.7. Good luck! :D