Recently picked up an (supposedly) early Ford 390 FE motor for my 56 pickup. The previous owner thought it was a 1961 to maybe a 1963. Need to know where the serial number is located on these motors

 

There isn't one.

Block casting number and casting date code located near the starter. The date code will pin down the year...somewhat.

1961/67 390's were only installed in cars. 1958/64 FE engines have a different engine block bolt pattern for the front insulators than 1965/76's.

ALL FE engines look pretty much the same and...on sale day, 352/360's magically become 390's!

Measure the stroke to determine engine size. 352/360: 3.50" / 390: 3.78."

btw: 1958/71 FE engines have 352 cast on the block, but this means nothing as it's a foundry mark since all FE engines were cast as 352's.

 

Police Interceptor 390's! Just like all SBC's are out of a Corvette.