Hello
  I'm just learning about the Y Block
and looking at some of the posting here, I see people are looking for
specific casting numbers. Is this because they want the best head, block, intake, carb, or
they want matching numbers.
   In fact just now I bought a 292 complete engine the only plans I have for it, is a good
cleaning,  paint,  coat the exhaust manifold.
  Best

We're all still learning about the y blocks. If you're used to working on other makes, these old Fords really don't have "numbers matching" like you're used to. On our's casting and sometimes dating numbers, not stamped to the vin. Sometimes, like me, you're looking for the "best" or most reliable casting. If you're doing a restoration, the number should be correct for the time,make, model.

Couple sites to start on.

Johm Mummert. The section at the end showing blocks, heads, etc. http://www.ford-y-block.com

Ted Eaton. Building instructions, a ton of dyno test on a variety of items. http://eatonbalancing.com

There's more sites, and a variety of social groups on some of the other forms, including the Ford Barn and the HAMB. We have a lot of chassis and running gear info here, but primarily the y block itself.

Enjoy your ride.

miker
55 bird, 32 cabrio F code
Kent, WA
Tucson, AZ

I'm a Ford guy,  just not had a Y block until now.
   The engine I bought is not going into a car, just cleaned and placed in a cradle.
I have a 385 waiting for a build, my Cleveland which is in my 62 Ford wagon
I also have a 56 Packard and a 74 Dart swinger
  I am looking for a flat head and FE, when I can afford them...
very low budget here...
Best

Those people restoring the cars back to original are looking for the same casting numbers as originally came with the car.  For the Y engines, the casting numbers on both the blocks and heads in many cases will help to identify both the cubic inch and the time frame in which the engine was produced.  The date codes help to further nail down the exact dates in those cases where the casting number was used for a longer period of time.  The link above to John’s site is a good one for Y-Block casting number info.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)