Chevrolet Engine Changes

The Chevy small block engine has seen changes over the years, identifying the age of the engine can be essential for some parts, here are some important things to look out for:

1980
Engines 1979 and earlier had a port side dipstick. From 1980 to 1985, the engine had a starboard side dipstick. Most engines had a rear main oil seal made up of two halves rather than complete, the bolts holding down the valve covers were round the outside and they had a 12.75 inch diameter flywheel until the end of 1985.

1986
In 1986 the engine still had a starboard side dipstick and outside valve cover bolts, but it had a one piece rear main oil seal. The flywheel diameter was changed to 14 inches (apart from Volvo engines).

1987
Engines after 1987 have valve covers with bolts in the centre. The bolt angle for intake manifolds also changed on this engine which means that earlier manifolds will not fit.

Firing Order