Engine casting number shows 1978??

[pagrunt]

that is weird if your tag has an E that is for a station wagon

I would say since the Monte Carlo was Z37 (1AZ37 to '81, 1GZ37 after '82) I'll reference my '78 Fisher manual on this. The 4AExx would of been used with 87-coupe, 09-sedan, & 35-station wagon for the Century Special.
Now for the block's VIN,it should be stamped on the drivers side of the bell housing flange.

 

[HAFROD]

OK, There is no stamping on the LH pad on the 1978 engine. I do have a destroyed turbo 3.8 in my junk pile. It is from a 1983. It does have a stamped ID number on it. Why would mine not be stamped on my 1978 engine block? Dealer replacement?

 

[DRIVEN]

Maybe the block needs to go to the machine shop for a thorough cleaning...and boring, and cam bearings, and crank polishing, etc.
I'm sure the numbers will be more visible after that.

 

[HAFROD]

Maybe the block needs to go to the machine shop for a thorough cleaning...and boring, and cam bearings, and crank polishing, etc.
I'm sure the numbers will be more visible after that.

It is for sure going to a machine shop. The first cam bearing is horrid looking

 

[fleming442]

I'm sure the numbers will be more visible after that.

As long as they don't mill them off! If I was really concerned, I'd advise the machinist of your intentions to find said numbers before the metal turns to chips.

 

[CenturyAero]

My Fremont CA assembled 1979 Century carries a build date of 02/79 and the serial number is 138713. With the Turbo Coupe having a 17,500 lower serial number it makes sense to have an engine with a date of 1978. Nothing to be concerned about there.