How do I Identify an older engine?

[Jeff3298]

I have a 56 and a newer V8 has been installed. The previous owne has no idea what it was. How do I identify what it is? Where do I look, what numbers am I looking for and then where do I find what those numbers mean? I have a few pictures but I doubt that would help. It is diffentaly an older engine. It has a exhaust crossover in the front upper part of the engine. At least thats what I would call it or it looks like.
HELP!









Jeff

[78fordf150ranger]

Its A old "Y" Block

[80broncoman]

That just looks like a "Y" block the previous post er listed.
The only displacement I know they came in was 272,292 and 312
There could be more.

[Jeff3298]

ok thanks, the 272 was the only displacement for that year but it sounds lke all the blocks were the same and parts are pretty much the same on the outside.

thanks
Jeff