Same old Block Number question?

Glen wrote:

Found another old block id problem that was disscussed some time ago and they mentioned the casting numbers. I know where to find these for a Chevy, but not the hudson.

Here they are starting from the top where the top ones have a screw head cast in on each end where they change each run or day:

- 1265 -

5325000

CWC

2

Hope this may help identify.

Thanks,

Glen

All Hudson engines from 48 to 54 have a serial number casted in the block under the distributor. If it starts with a 3 and has 6 numbers it's in the 48 to 54 range. Now is it starts with a 5 and has 7 numbers it's in the 1955 and 1956 range. You stated, 5325000 so it's 55 or 56 308 block and these are soft iron blocks, not like the 48 to 54 chrome nickel blocks. Walt.

Glen wrote:

Thanks, Walt

I know of the advantages of the hard block as far as ring wear, but are there advantages to the 55 or 56 block. Or should I say which is the better engine?

Glen

My car has a 56 engine, since rebuilt in 1998, has now recorded 130,000 miles and still goes 3,000 miles on oil changes. You must use soft rings which I found HASTINGS RINGS to be. This engine has never be touched except valve adjustments before I do my cross country trip. By the way I use CASTROL SYN-TEC BLEND 10-40 OIL. Walt.

DaveFury wrote:

Walt,



What camshaft do you have in your 308?

If you plan on having a driver, stay away from all cams except the 306344. All those other cams will give you trouble in the long run. Hudson tried higher output cams but always came back to the 306344. The 56 cam, 306742 was nothing but trouble. My engine has all the power you can use and I even changed to rear ratio from 308 to 273 and can still climb the Grape Vine on route 5 going to LA at over 70 MPH. I've driven up to 12,500 feet and have had no problems. Walt.