Hey Steve
Do you have the intake manifold? If you do check the back of the manifold and see if you have a partial VIN stamping there.
Hey there TXShelbyman, fka watts428. When I bought the car, it was well used and abused. The intake and carb were not on the engine. I have since acquired both but I’m still looking for a date code correct, reinforced block.
For those interested, and in particular, those who have helped me get the car sorted out into its present condition, here’s a little background:
I bought this car in 1976, after seeing it parked at an ARCO gas station. It was an 8 year old high performance car that saw regular usage, and was at the gas station for a new clutch. I was all of 22 years old and had a pedestrian knowledge of Shelbys. I knew the VIN was special and the car should have the VIN present in 3 easy to find locations. I didn’t know much about the details of the engine back then. Besides, it was fairly commonly felt that if the car was used as expected, the likelihood of the original engine not being damaged from racing was fairly low. Back then, pulling a worn out 428 PI and popping in a 428 CJ, from a wrecked Mustang or Torino would have been an upgrade.
What I did know was that I wanted a convertible, GT500, or a KR, with a 4 speed trans. Once I saw this car also had air conditioning, I was as determined to buy this car as would be a wealthy bidder at a B-J auction, after having a dozen too many rum and cokes, bidding on one of those ultra rare, and super fancy, 1967 Shelby Eleanor Mustangs. Ironically, I did over pay for this Shelby!
Thanks to all who have responded, and those who continue to respond, to this thread. Your information has certainly helped me. I hope it helps others, as well.
Steve