400 for sale on eBay??? Casting numbers and dates?

[Xp29h]

I found this on eBay yesterday. I've been looking for a 400.
Looking at the description, the seller states a casting number of 4006530 and date of 2/11/71.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/331349965962

I was curious if was a 400 so I looked on the web for casting numbers. Please let me know if I'm wrong or this was possible. But from what I found, that casting number tells it is a 400, but 400's with that casting number came out later not 1971 as stated. So not as rare! Actually looks like a 1976?

I asked the seller (with zero feedback) to send some pics of cast numbers and any other numbers from pad on top by distributor. All I got back was a statement saying it is a real 400 with casting numbers and date as stated..

I'm thinking its a 400 but not as described? Hiding something or misinformed. Either way I think I'll stay away.

What are the thoughts out there?
Thanks!

 

[Cranky]

IIRC, the 230 is the early block....

 

[Roughbird72]

the 230 block is the best, but core shift can happen on any block.
I would worry more about it already being at an overbore.
i made that mistake a few years back & bought a 400 that was already at a +.040 overbore.

 

[barnfind]

Any pics of the webbing?
http://www.440source.com/blockinfo.htm
Ive read castings after 10/10/71 have standard webbing, prior to have the desireable thick webbing
71-72 3614230
73-78 3698630
76-78 4006530-400-12


2/11/77 maybe???

 

[Xp29h]

Yeah the 230 is the early block from what I could tell. So Cranky, you remembered correctly! thanks.

The guy would not send me any pics. Just a little quick response with a hint of attitude..

I figured i would try to figure out the dates and casting numbers first just to see then worry about the over bore. I think you're right barnfind, it may be 2/11/77 instead of 71.. who knows what people have done over the years..

Maybe i am just looking for a deal, but for that kind of description and he thinks its a rare motor, I don't see this being a really good deal. With a little attitude in his response, I think again Ill just hold off.. There has to be a 400 out there that won't cost me more to ship than the actual cost of the motor! LOL!

Thanks!!