I'm trying to figure out if I can get an engine from a guy off of this forum. He'* selling the two 3800 engines in the for sale section, and I'm interested in the complete 85k mile engine. However, he'* not sure if its a 92 or a 93 engine.

This concerns me because my L27 has 1.8 ratio roller rockers on from ZZP, and I know the ZZP site specifically stated that these will not work with older 3800'*, only the 93+ Series 1'*, with the reason being that the earlier versions have 3/8" studs. Not sure what they're referring to, so I was hoping some of you can give me some insight. I don't want to pick up this engine from him only to find out that my roller rockers won't bolt onto the new engine, as the roller rockers were more expensive than the engine he'* selling.

Are there any distinct differences between the 3800'* in 1993 and above and 3800'* in 1992 and below to help identify the engine he is selling?

Cross referencing the part #'* on Rockauto.

1993 Long Block engine part #G23108C
1993 cylinder head part #H4053 3/8 stud size

1992 Long block engine part #G23106C
1992 Cylinder head part #H4053 3/8 stud size

Not sure what the difference is between the blocks, but the heads appear to be the same.

I believe the stud size on my car is 11/16...

You may be able to swap your heads onto the other block. But, I'm just speculating now. I believe Boosty may have more knowledge in this dept.

There wouldn't be much of a purpose to putting in a low mileage engine if I swapped my heads over, which have 213k. The car runs fine, but I figured I could have an extra engine to port and polish and get ready for something more than stock, even being a Series 1.

I might have to resort to just pulling my own heads and port and polishing those.