1971 or 1972 318?

[Matt13]

Found the build date on my 1973 Barracuda's 318. 8/22/71. Would that make it a 71 or a 72 318? That is to say, would it have gone into next years model (72), being built in late August of 71?

[anlauto]

Look for the VIN number on the block

[Chryco Psycho]

The vin stamping will tell you for sure but usually the first cars for the next model year are built in the first week of Aug so my bet is 72

[Matt13]

Look for the VIN number on the block

Well, did my research and looked in a few places on the block. Unfortunately the casting numbers on both the driver's and passenger's side are occluded by headers. All I could make  out was the build date (8/22/71) and 318 5 on the driver's side. Now on the driver's side front of the block right below the head was HM318R 38190125 the upside down JA.

[6bblgt]

HM318R 38190125

H = 1972 model year
M = Mound Rd. engine assembly plant
318 = cu.in. displacement
R = regular fuel
3819 = Tuesday January 11, 1972 assembly date
0125 = unit number

[Matt13]

HM318R 38190125

H = 1972 model year
M = Mound Rd. engine assembly plant
318 = cu.in. displacement
R = regular fuel
3819 = Tuesday January 11, 1972 assembly date
0125 = unit number

Thanks for the decode! So I'm guessing the block was cast on 8/22/71 but assembled in January of 1972? Also, do you happen to know what the upside down J A means?

[JS29]

@Matt13  If you tag a member they will know you are trying to reach them. @6bblgt

[Matt13]

Ok, thanks!