Question about wheel arch notches
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Pro
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From: Napa, CA
Question about wheel arch notches
I recall reading somewhere in the past about notches in C3 wheel arches located at the 12 o’clock position of the inner lip. They were provisions for the body lifting apparatus used in the St. Louis plant during the body merge. I recall both my 69s having them and I was told that it was a good indicator that verified the fenders and quarters were originals, as replacements typically did not have the notches. My 73 does not have these notches on any of the wheel arch inner lips but also appears to have all the original undamaged SMC bodywork. Did the notches go away when GM switched to SMC around 73?
Thanks in advance for any replies,
Ken
Thanks in advance for any replies,
Ken
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 652
Likes: 454
From: Napa, CA
Thanks for your reply Allen and the picture of your 71s wheel arch inner lip. Yes, this is the notch(s) I’m referring to.
Anybody else have some knowledge on this? How about some of you guys with NCRS judging experience, did the notches go away at some time in the early 70s? If so, what year and why?
Thanks again.
Anybody else have some knowledge on this? How about some of you guys with NCRS judging experience, did the notches go away at some time in the early 70s? If so, what year and why?
Thanks again.
1967 Pedal Car Champion
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Lips of the fenders are not cut to allow larger tires. A slight thinning of the front fender lip at two points rear of the center is normal. These were for factory assembly purposes. One is on center, the other is six inches toward the rear.
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2025 c3 ('74-'82) of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
2023 C3 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
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My car is proof they were gone by '76...
