Help a newbie out on big block engines...

[bluefury361]

I believe 61-62 and earlier the rocker shafts are on aluminum stands that the bolt goes through. I may be wrong on years there but it has to be close to that

You got it right..... After 62 the rocker shafts were held with steel retainers.

 

[A38Valiant]

One trick I have used to ID B vs RB engines in yards is the width of the intake at the "points". Frequently the A/C compressor is in the way of seeing the pad on the RBs, but a quick measurement between the rear points of the intake will tell you which family, B or RB. I just wish I could remember the measurements. Seems to me it was 10 inches vs 11 inches, but I can't recall. Somebody chime in here...

 

[70bigblockdodge]

Yes, lots of interchange between the "B" & "RB" engines. There were several variations of cylinder heads although all will bolt on both low and hi blocks.

Low blocks, (B) engines are....
350
361
383
400
Raised blocks, (RB) engines are....
59-60 383
413
426
440

There are also two viarations of the "A" series 318 engine.
1958 through 1966, (67 in Canadian models), used the A318 poly motor
1967, (68 Canadian), used the LA 318 engine. The primary difference was the cylinder head design. These two engines also share many componants.

Chrysler Power magazine is doing a 3 part series on poly motors good info if anyone is looking for info on them.

 

[commando1]

One trick I have used to ID B vs RB engines in yards is the width of the intake at the "points"....

Way too hard.
Just see if the head deck is flush or raised 3/4" from the water pump boss.