So is it a 327 or 350? How do I tell?

[Guest TBroZ]

I bought a 240Z recently, and the seller told me that it has a Target Master 327 that he put in it sometime about 1978. He said he got it new from GM, and was under the impression it was a new motor. Someone has commented that the Target Master motors were a GM rebuilt motor.

 

While ordering a new cam and lifters today (my lifters keep sticking), the guy told me that GM never offered the 327 as a Target Master motor and that they wouldn't have had them in 1978 anyway. I don't doubt that the original owner believe's it's a 327, but maybe he's wrong. It's been 24 years! So, what's the easiest way to determine whether it's a 327 or a 350? Is there any way to do so without taking the heads off?

 

Terry

[Heavy Z]

Try here:

 

How you tell if it's a 327

 

These posts should help you out.

 

[SpeedRacer]

I'm pretty sure he is right about GM not having Targetmaster 327 CID engines. Write down the block casting number and go to this site http://www.mortec.com/castnum.htm You will the at least know what it used to be.

[Mike C]

GM has offered crate engines forever, and definitely you could buy a 327 from GM in 78. Wheter or not it was new or rebuilt is a matter of debate. If it was new, the stamp on the deck right in front of the passenger side cylinder head will most likely have the CM code along with a serial number. If it was a reman I don't know if they would have re-stamped it or if they even would have decked it.

[zthis]

Don't be fooled by a casting number on a block

if its a rebuild the block can be from a 350

but its the crank and pistons that make it a 327.