Info needed on 390 blocks.

[falcon428]

I'm wanting to pick up a couple 390 blocks to build strokers with.  Have a project coming up that I am wanting to do 445 stroker.  I have a few buddies with salvage yards that I can have on the lookout for blocks coming in.  I'm just not sure what blocks are best for my needs, or how to tell them apart.  Mirror 105 block is talked about a lot.  What years am I looking for, where do I look for markings and so on?  Since I have a few connections in the salvage business thought it would be good to gather a couple extra blocks for future projects or to help out a fellow FE builder. 
Thanks!!
Rodney

[ScotiaFE]

The 105 blocks started in 72 and I think and went to 76 maybe a bit later.
If you are going to stock pile blocks you need to look at any and all blocks
that come your way. They are just not that plentiful as they once were.
The value of the weight has go up for many years now and a lot of vintage
stuff is gone now or getting expensive.
105 blocks also came in small bore. They are not all super duper building blocks.
The real test of a 105 block is a bore check and the gap between the cylinders, and then a little math and you can
figure out a rough wall thickness. Then decide if you want to buy.

[DEANs427]

FT 330 & 361 blocks from school buses and medium duty trucks can also be good canidates due to small bore size. U have to bush the dist pilot hole. can often pick up the whole vehicle cheap, scrap out the chassis and end up  with a free motor.
been there....

[falcon428]

Thanks for the advice.  Is the 105 actually mirrored in the casting?  Not looking to stock pile a lot of them just have a few around for future projects.  Like to put FE in anything I can.  Always looking for FE parts to add to the collection.

[ScotiaFE]

Yes. The 105 is a mirror image. If you look at the casting in a mirror it will say 105.
Next chance when I'm at the stock pile I will take a pic. lol