I have 70 el camino with 396 block (built in Vany Nuys); I am looking for the engine VIN/code, but it is not in the ussual place on the passenger side engine block pad below valve cover.
I read in a SS restoration book that the VIN/code on 70 396 blocks is near the oil filter, except on cars build in freemont. Anyone found the VIN in this location. I've looked, but with the header in the way, and thick engine paint, it's difficult to find. I don't want to strip off the paint down there untill I know for sure its there.

thanks

Go to www.mortec.com you can find everything you want to know about Chevy casting numbers but were afraid to ask. The casting number you will need is the one located on the drivers side by the fire wall just behind the valve cover between the block and bellhousing.
Dan

Thanks, I'm out of town right now, so I can't check the engine VIN location. But I looked at your link, and I found this quote:

"Starting in 1970, the serial number is stamped either above the oil filter, somewhere on the block pad (in front of the cylinder head), or on the transmission flange somewhere. Chevrolet issued technical service bulletins to indicate which engines were to recieve a vin stamp, so who knows what could have happend (or not happened)."

I've seen this mentioned twice now, so I'm guessing it is true - now I've just to stip a bit of paint possibly to see the number. The bummer is that the quote states it may or maynot be there.