383 HP Engine from 1962

[angus]

Hey, I apologize if I'm repeating myself, I mention this question in my member introduction but it got lost in all the excitement...

I am the proud (if not a little surprised) owner of a 1962 "B" 383 Engine from 1962. It has a four-barrel manifold that (after looking it up) looks to be right for that engine. The engine is stamped with S-38 HP "Maltese Cross" 3-6. I deciphered most of this but I am curious what "High Performance (HP)" means? What is the difference on an HP motor than a regular 383 from 1962 - if anything? I guess this engine is going to be with me for a while and I'd like to be able to explain it to someone else if asked.

 

[mopar 3 B]

Not sure where that picture is taken from. It that the front valley rail or a strange below distributor picture?

 

[Jerry Hall]

I'm pretty sure that the HP has a little higher compression ratio and a 4bbl carb. There are really no differences in the block. Heads I wouldn't know if they were different.

 

[Beekeeper]

The pic is of the deck surface of the block and the correct location for the numbers on a B engine

 

[50 Coupe]

If I recall, the 'maltese cross' may designate an under size crank journal.

 

[Beekeeper]

If I recall, the 'maltese cross' may designate an under size crank journal.

yep .001 undersize crank

 

[chignikred]

HP just means a 4 bl carb and a dual point distributor, and cam spec.