How do I identify what year engine I have?

[mustangduane]

I just noticed the sticker on the radiator brace in my 1979 CJ5 , which has the belt schematic of a 1983 258ci. hmmmmmmmmm I thought I had the original drivetrain from 1979.
Any thoughts on how to identify which engine I have, so I can buy the correct parts if needed?
Thanks!
Duane

 

[SemperCJ]

I have a AMC 258 i6 / 4.2l in my CJ5 and there is an ID # stamped on the passenger side between the 2nd and 3rd spark plugs- from there you should be able to find a website that will help you decode the ID. Hopefully that helps a little.

 

[mustangduane]

Very helpful, I will take a look!

 

[BrockGrimes]

This should help:
AMC 258 CID (4.2 Litte) Engine Block Identification Numbers - Eaglepedia

 

[ThisGuyUKnow]

if you pull the valve cover off there is a year stamped on the head..... but that would only id the year of the head.

 

[phinleft]

decode the vin - see the link

CJ5 - CJ6 Parts and Accessories