1969 Nova 396-375 HP

Michael 396 · #1 01-10-2004, 07:08 PM

Hi, new member to this site, I read all the posts everyday, great information. I have filled out my profile I hope it was done correctly. My question I'm looking at a 1969 SS-396-375 HP Nova, it has the build sheet indicating it had the L-78 option, the owner indicated it was not matching but has a true L-78 engine, the casting number 3955272, the engine has been decked leaving no numbers which can be verified, he also indicated by the oil filter there is the word special hi performance and 3 holes drilled which was done at the factory, on the L-78 engines was these used for an external oil cooler, would this indicate it is a true L-78. Thanks- Great Site

**WILMASBOYL78** · #2 01-10-2004, 10:58 PM

Hi Mike and welcome to the site. The 272 block was used from sept 68 thru june of 69. You are correct about the holes for the external oil cooler, these indicate the 4-bolt hi-po block. There are some engines that have an alternate vin stamp near the oil filter though I have never seen one on a Nova. Try to get the casting date from the block and the heads and see how they line up compared to the build date of the car. Any paperwork with the car? Hope this helps, please feel free to e-mail or call 518.799.2303.
Tom Williams Check your PM.

Nova Research Project · #3 01-11-2004, 04:52 PM

Hello Michael 396;

Can you email or post the VIN, the trim tag, and the build sheet info. I can do a quick numbers check to make sure everything lines up for you.

Greg

Michael 396 · #4 01-11-2004, 07:20 PM

Chevy114270-Greg
I have the vin number it is #114279W376583, I'm waiting for a copy of the cowl tag and build sheet, I trying to decide what the car is worth his asking price is $20,000 I think he will take $19250 for a non matching engine and transmission, not proper value covers it has orange ones, which I know are not correct, your thoughts to much for a driver?

**WILMASBOYL78** · #5 01-11-2004, 08:26 PM

Michael, check your PM. Tom

Nova Research Project · #6 01-13-2004, 05:13 AM

Michael 396;

The value of a car is hard to peg down. What is it worth to you? What are you looking for in the car. Some are willing to pay more for potential in a car. Others only for a complete car or an all original car. Is it an investment or something to enjoy driving?

I can do a numbers check when you get the rest of the information. Let me know if I can help there.

The value of anything rests in the wallet of the buyer.

Greg