Years of 53 Brazil block?

[dank1945]

Hi all,
I went to check out a 96 2500 today, and I'm not sure if I'm looking at a 53 block or not. Up at the top of the block, close to the front cover, driver's side, and almost hidden under a large bracket that holds fuel lines in place, I found in large raised numbers a "53", with a space and a series of other numbers following. Is this the infamous 53 block? Is it possible to have a 96 with a 53 block?
Also, does anyone know the difference in hp from my 94 F350 CC 7.3L IDI to the 5.9 L Cummins? This 96 only has about 130 k miles on it, seems to have been well taken care of body wise, tranny repaired 2 years ago. It definitely needs a new rad, this one's fins are desintegrating. Rancho shocks, air bags, good interior, and impecable exterior, aluminum wider rims, and OEm rims, two sets of tires. Asking $10,000 US.
Opinions or suggestions encouraged, please!
Thanks,
Dan

 

[averagef250]

A stock 96 auto is 160-180HP or around 300-350 with $500 in parts.

The earliest 053 block I've seen was a 98 12 valve. The newest was a late '01 24V.

The 053 blocks are very easy to spot. They are entirely different casting from the usual blocks. along the sides of the block where side motor mounts are bolted the 053 blocks have horizontal and vertical ribs and several extra engine mounting points than the standard six cylinder block. They have 53 and 053 cast all over them, big numbers on the sides and towards the front of the block.

The 053 blocks often crack, but moreso it seams the whole engine just doesn't go as long. The ones I've seen worked hard had far more frequent head gasket issues and more cylinder wear than typical. I think those blocks are just poor iron all the way around and should definitely be avoided.