Build data tag?
Thread Starter
3rd Gear
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
Build data tag?
I'm somewhat new to Corvettes, and am considering buying a 69 coupe with a 427 4 speed configuration. I know the engine is a 454 now and a strong driver ( and stopper), but don't know where to find the other build data like axle ratio, options etc. I know where the VIN tag and interior /paint code tag are, but where is the other data? I know where the tag is on a 69 Camaro, it's not there on the vette. This all may be information that isn't needed as the engine isn't original, but I would like to know for this car or for another in the future sometime. I hate to ask newbie questions, but could not find the info in the search mode . Thanks
Drifting
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 1,591
Likes: 111
From: North Brunswick NJ
The tank sticker, if still intact, will have all of that information. First, you may want to do a visual before you drop the tank. Open the gas door, remove the gas cap, remove the rubber filler neck boot. Now with a flashlight, see if you can see the tank sticker on the top drivers side of the tank. If you have one, drop the tank to photograph or remove and save it. I have included a picture of mine from my 68. Good luck.
Last edited by jaxlt1; Feb 9, 2011 at 06:51 AM.
Safety Car
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 4,458
Likes: 331
From: Indy Indiana
it's a long shot on that tank sticker.. for a 42 year old car do not expect there to be one, if there is, do not expect to be able to read it, it will be almost dust. if it is there and readable, ( perhaps preserved by a previous owner ) then the corvette gods are looking very very favorable towards you!
this lack of configuration doc is why and how people add and remove options on corvettes and no one can prove otherwize. it is why well documented, low owner count corvettes sell for big bucks.
for a big block 69 you are looking at, expect that options have been added and removed or changed ( you already know the engine has). know your requirements and confirm your requirements.
this lack of configuration doc is why and how people add and remove options on corvettes and no one can prove otherwize. it is why well documented, low owner count corvettes sell for big bucks.
for a big block 69 you are looking at, expect that options have been added and removed or changed ( you already know the engine has). know your requirements and confirm your requirements.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 2,300
Likes: 1
From: Quincy IL
On a side note, if you are really wanting to "dig" into this car and find out about the changes in the '69 production year, I HIGHLY recommend a book: 1969 Stingray Guidebook by Rick Bizzoco. I believe it's out of print now but I've found it on ebay and amazon.. and it's not cheap, but worth every penny.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 3,189
Likes: 111
From: Tolland CT
I added options to mine because it's the way I wanted my car configured. I have never worried about the next buyer. I bought the car for ME, not for the next guy.
I think the implication people upgrade options only to deceive for financial gain is a bit off. If the buyer is looking for a high dollar collectible, most often a true original, sure, it makes sense to verify the car has not been altered. This buyer doesn't appear to be looking for a big dollar orignal. Seems to be looking for a driver.
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 38,923
Likes: 1,482
From: Southbound
Cruise-In II Veteran
Corvette differentials are coded with the original gear set. The code will be stamped on the bottom of the differential. Post the code you find and folks here can decipher it.
Be aware the code will only be for the original gear set; yours could have been changed by a previous owner.
Be aware the code will only be for the original gear set; yours could have been changed by a previous owner.
Thread Starter
3rd Gear
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
Thanks for the good info. I am looking for a sound, fun car to drive, but also want to learn as much as I can. Too many changes and I'm probably going to pass, but other than engine change, this car seems like a pretty good candidate for a buy. I will look underneath for the differential and maybe a tranny code. I will definitely look on the gas tank for the paper data sheet. The car is owned by a friend several hundred miles away. He traded for it and doesn't know a great deal about the original history,but he personally replaced clutch, pressure plate, assoc bearings/bushings, and serviced the rear, plus new brake rebuilds all around-mechanically pretty good. When I get some numbers, I'll post them. Thanks again.
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Thread Starter
3rd Gear
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
I called my friend and asked about the paper build sheet on top of the gas tank. No sheet present-they had removed the tank when inspecting the car during a new repaint (to original color). They did not discard it, it just wasn't there.
The good news is: New paint and no frame rust. I'll have to check rear and trans numbers at a later date.
Bad news: Needs seat covers, door panels, carpet.
Ordered the book from Bizzoco tonight. thanks
The good news is: New paint and no frame rust. I'll have to check rear and trans numbers at a later date.
Bad news: Needs seat covers, door panels, carpet.
Ordered the book from Bizzoco tonight. thanks
Last edited by boomer300; Feb 10, 2011 at 09:42 PM. Reason: forgot a piece
