How do I figure out what year the motor is?

It's nothing more than a long block so that would be part 2 of my question... Since it's just a block and head can I build it for whatever year I choose or do I still have to stick with the original year it was made?

Then as a follow up question (sorry) If the above is possible, what would the best year to build be? OBD1/OBD2?

 

There was only one block made for the LT1/LT4.

The 94-5 computer is the cheapest and easiest to deal with but the 96-7 can be good because of plugin testing as opposed to tailpipe.

 

Does it still have the cam & timing set on it?
If so, a cam gear with a splined center hole is 92-94. Cam dowl pin is flush with the timing gear. Small center hole on the timing cover
95-97 (and LT4 timing sets) all use a longer pin coming past the cam gear. Large center hole in timing cover.
96-97 are OBDII and have the long cam dowl pin (long pin) and a crank position sensor on the timing cover. Large ceter hole in timing cover w/ sensor. If timing cover is missing, there will be a cogged wheel on the front of the crank.

 

For the f-body, a VIN derivative is stamped on the block.

 

Dang Rob you have EVERY bit of F-body info on your site. In case no one has every said it - Thanks for every bit of help you have given over the years.

 

I did some reading and came to the conclusion that OBD1 would probably be my best choice... well actually I just found a guy selling a 94 turnkey! hahaha SO I guess the choice was made for me.

Having said that I have, what was said to be, a 1996 LT1 Block and set of heads for sale... hehe (I couldn't verify the year or miles)

 

There are different heads, with different head casting numbers. That might pin down the year.