'63 Valiant Newbie

cudamark said
You have some fancy aftermarket valve cover bolts. A magnet will tell you whether it's an aluminum block or cast iron. Post the block number and/or stamped letters/numbers that should be on the upper block surface on the passenger side front. You need to look down in the crack between the alternator bracket and the valve cover to see it. A stamped '63 block I.D. number should start with T......then either a 17 or 22 for 170 or 225.

Well, whadayknow - there are the numbers, plain as day! It's a 225. (Yes, the engine was rebuilt - two years ago. More about that in a later post.)

valiantpatrol said
An easier way to tell which engine you have is to try to try and place your hand between the front most exhaust manifold runner and the block directly behind the waterpump. Pass you whole hand thru easily, a 225. Can barely pass a standard diameter pencil thru, a 170. If you have a 170 it is not aluminum. If you have a 225 stand by the driver front wheel looking at the block and exhaust manifold. Do you see freeze/expansion plugs? If yes you have an iron block. If no you have aluminum. Confirm with magnet as mentioned in earlier post. Congrats on purchase and welcome to forum.

Freeze plugs - I got 'em! It's an iron block, and a magnet confirms.

For those who asked for more pix, will do - I've a couple other chores to attend to, and then I'll be back. Thanks for the good advice!