What does "S" for Special mean on a 440 pad?

[1970Moparmann]

Guys,

Have a 440 block that has the following -

Top of block on pad -
S 440
9 16 2

The casting is 2536430-8

I can't find anything on the web that states what the "S" Special means.   I found the Special on Moparts-

http://www.moparts.org/Tech/Archive/motor/36.html

Thanks!!

[tan top]

whats the casting date ? any chance you could take a picture of top pad 

[1970Moparmann]

whats the casting date ? any chance you could take a picture of top pad 

Here they are.   I think it says 1963, but my friend thinks it is 1969.   Since the casting number is 2536430, I assumed that I am wrong since per Moparts, it says that casting number is 66-72.

[69CoronetRT]

If it's a 69, look for a VIN on the passenger side of the block. Look for a pad about 1/3 of the way back above the oil pan.

[1970Moparmann]

Just found this thread on Moparts -

http://board.moparts.org/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php/topics/171855/1.html

It looks to be a service replacement block.   The funny thing is the block does have the rivet for the tag, but it is missing.   I'll have to check, but I don't believe there is a VIN on the block.  Will check.   It does have the wrong oil pan on it and valve covers. 

[1970Moparmann]

If it's a 69, look for a VIN on the passenger side of the block. Look for a pad about 1/3 of the way back above the oil pan.

It's blank!   The valve covers are incorrect and also the oil pan.   

[4mayhemi]

Yes, the S and rivet next to the "freeze" plug would be warranty replacement.
Sep 16, 1969 assembly 2nd shift
WT all S's I've seen have the water test stamp

Check the block at the starter just to make sure it doesn't have an "install" stamp

[1970Moparmann]

Check the block at the starter just to make sure it doesn't have an "install" stamp

4MayHemi, why this statement?   Just curious.

[4mayhemi]

I understand that sometimes a dealer would stamp a replacement block or tranny.
The top pad looks original, but just checking since some block stamps have been milled and restamped.