[chedz]

I think that website is sufficient proof. If you print that page out and take it along. Alternatively if you want something more official there is the Motor heritage people. For a small fee they will write you a letter dating the block based on the number.

From memory a guy called Phil sorts out the letters there and is very helpful.


I got this note from VOSA when I asked as I had trouble tracing my specific number:

As far as our examiner is concerned, when inspecting an amateur built
vehicle, he will be looking for evidence as to the age of the engine
"block" to determine the "effective date" of the vehicle and thus determine
what emissions standard to apply to that vehicle. If the "effective date"
cannot be determined, it will be assumed to be after 1st August 1997 and
will therefore be required to pass a catalyst emissions test.

Although there is a marking on the engine block that appears to look like a
date marking, we cannot assume that this is indeed the case. You would need
to obtain documentary evidence in the form of a letter from the engine
manufacturer that confirms that this is indeed a dating feature and that
this is how they dated their blocks.

Other evidence that would be acceptable would be information contained in
an Auto-data / Haynes manual. The information in such data manuals is
likely to have originated from the manufacturer. Information from the
internet can also be used if it comes from an official source. It may be
worth looking in these areas for the information that you require..

Cheers
Graham