David in NC

I am looking at a 1970 L46, which owner swears in #'s matching, engine never out of car. He only sees a casting date and correct engine code (CTH) on the stamp pad. No 2nd stamping with VIN. He says there is a matching #'s VIN stamp on lower portion of engine near the oil filter, visible with car on lift. Is this possible or is this a big problem? Also, can a Dec 1969 engine build date match a very early production car (VIN <200)?
Thanks

71 Green 454

I've heard of this on a '70 LS5 from a forum member.



Also mentioned on the C3 registry about half way down the page:

http://www.1970corvetteregistry.org/mechdetails.html

"L-46 with Alternate VIN Derivative stamp location - this alternate location is more commonly found on Camaro's but there have been documented cases where during the initial days of 1970 Corvette production the VIN derivative was stamped near the oil filter. (#00307, A06 Build Date)"

David in NC

Wow, extremely helpful, thank you. I assume having to explain this rare variant would not affect value of L46? Is it possible to have such an early production 1970 with a Dec 18 (1969) build date on engine stamp?

Faster Rat

Evidently it has stopped you from pulling the trigger thus far. What would change when you decide to sell it?

David in NC

Not really, once I did research to determine legit. I think enough documentation on the web about this variation, plus tank sticker, etc. to be clear to any buyer including myself.

Rowdy Rat

David,

The explanation in this case is pretty straight forward... This is how most 1970 Corvette engines were stamped for the first two or three days of production. If everything else checks out, you're good to go.

Considering that 1970 Corvette production didn't start until January 5, 1970, it's not uncommon to see engines assembled in December 1969 destined for early January 1970 cars. Again, just the normal flow of production. If I remember correctly, my old 1970 coupe, #00538, had an engine assembly date of December 29 (1969).

Regards,

Stan Falenski

Easy Mike

Engines were ordered from the engine assembly plant, assembled there, and shipped to St, Louis before assembly of the Corvette was begun. For that reason, engine assembly dates always predate the time built date of the car.

530planeman

I met with several gentlemen that worked at the St.Louis plant when your corvette was built and they mentioned this alternate stamping location.I am going to meet with them again I will ask why this was done
Wes