The engine number is stamped on the engine block itself. It positively identifies the engine size (e.g. A12) as well as the serial number. The mark is always on the left (distributor) side of a Datsun A-series engine, but the location varies with the year. If you do not see the number, wipe the grease off the engine block.
Engine Number
Left Side of Engine ------------------------------- To about 1980 From about 1980 ------------------------------- Below #4 plug Below #2 plug -------------------------------
1970-1973 A12 Engine ID Mark is below #4 spark plug, on jutting pad
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1974~1981 A12 ID Mark Type A
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~1981-1995 A12 ID Mark Type B is below #2 & #3 spark plugs, center of block, above fuel pump, forward of distributor
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A12-E
A12A ID Mark 1979-1982 - Stamp is below #4 spark plug, on vertical pad
Early Tall-Block (A13/A14/A15) ID Mark is below #4 spark plug, aft of distributor
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Late Tall-block (A14 or A15) ID Mark location is below #2 & #3 spark plugs, center of block, above fuel pump, forward of distributor
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1974 A12 vs 1974 A13 - Left: A12, Right: A13 tall block
Matching Numbers
If the engine is the original one, the serial number will match that on the Model Number Plate.
Nissan A Engines: Overview | A10 | A12 | A12A | A13, old | A13, new | A14 | A15