Mine is blank! So what do I got? Is this a good thing or a bad thing?

I know it's a good thing that I don't have the 53 block. The concern is the blank spot.

 

Well if you are looking in the right spot you have no worries. Mine doesn't have a block number on it either.

 

Mine neither. I was thinking my engine might have been replaced previous to me. I guess not since I 'm not the only one without a number

 

Dodge4x4 I am looking in the right spot. Wonder what the differ is between the blank blocks and those with castings? Good to know that I am not the only one with a blank block.

 

I think our blocks with no numbers are the blocks from Mexico. There are some small numbers but above the spot where the 53,56 ect.. would be stamped on mine. I sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong on this.

 

If someone wouldn't mind refreshing my memory...

I've seen pics of the pinhole leaks / cracks on a '53' block on this site in other threads and I seem to remember all of the cracks occurring on the passenger side of the block. Is this the only location where the cracks develop? Are they also prone to develop in other locations?

 

I printed info on this back awhile ago and recall a left side weak area around the tappet gallery, back end.

I'll try to post the site, lots of info. Made me kind of sick at the time actually.

Not going to let it ruin my day.

 

I have a 1999 and it does not have the casting no's in that spot either. I wonder if the engine serial number is an indicator of which one you have? My serial no. starts with a 56xxxxxx. It may be saying that my block is a 56! Care to check your serial no. against the 53 that is cast in your block.
On the passenger side of the block in the front area it has an A cast in with the date casting above it. The A is about an inch tall.