When looking at any particular sheet in the AIM, are the 6 & 7 digit numbers (adjacent to the part name) the GM part number (p/n)? If so, is there another document that I can use to determine what the part is?

For example, in the 70 AIM, Sheet K92, # 565842 is a 'screw'. How do I find out what size it is, length, finish, etc.?

I'd call it the spec for the part.

Thanks.

 

get a copy of the "parts and illustration manual". it has the same diagrams as the aim, plus info on bolt and screw sizes, part #s, and info on what years parts changed. there was a post a few months ago on a site to download a web copy. i got my copy on the dreaded e place.

 

Yes, the number you refer to is the GM part number. Generally, though, hardware (screws, nuts, bolts, washers, etc.) are not found in the "Corvette Parts and Illustration Manual". Hardware is found in GM parts Group 8.900, which is not included in the Parts Book.

Hardware (group 8.900) was included in a book called the "Standard Parts Catalog". To find a screw in this book, you need to know the type of screw your looking for, nothing is in order by part number. Hardware is listed by type (oval head, phillips, english, black sheet metal screw; Torx head, black, metric, bolt; etc.) then under the type, it lists part numbers with dimensions next to the part number.

Having a "Parts and Illustrtion Manual" and a part number from the AIM doesn't guarranty you'll find it in the parts book, either. GM did not include a numerical parts number index in the parts book. The only index is by desription and tells you what group to find the part in. GM's descriptions are often different from what a part is commonly refered to. Valve covers are listed as: Covers, rocker arm and dipsticks are listed as Gauge, oil level, just as an example. Often what GM called something in the AIM, may be described differently in the parts book. Also, parts numbers often change as a part is modified, updated or for no reason what so ever. The old number is not included in subsquent parts books. The only numerical parts index I know of was a book GM used to print called the "Dealer Parts and Accessories Price Schedule". These gave you a listing with a part number; the group it was found in; if it had been changed, what the new number was and if it was discontinued, when.

Don't get me wrong, the "Corvette Parts and Illustration Manual" is a great source of information. I have several between the years 62 to 86 (when GM stopped using printed books), and on GM microfich I have the complete set of Corvette parts books from 1953 to 2002. GM parts books, even as reprints, are expensive, and I thought you should be aware that they are just one (very useful) tool for identifing Corvette parts.

 

Might just be habit, but I find I go the AIM first, then the Parts and Illustration Manual.

 

GM has an engineering drawing for every [different] nut, screw, washer... regardless whether it is a standard item from a screw manufacturer or not. You would either need a copy of that drawing or some cross-referenced index to determine the specific characteristics of the part in question. The previous suggestions may be able to provide that. Don't forget that what coating is on that fastener is important to being 'original', as well (chrome, black oxide, nickel, etc.); appearance matters as much as being the right 'size'.

 

One of the most enduring mysteries continues to be... what was the original finish. I agree with everyone's information. As 7T1 posted the specifications called out the required finish, but sometimes several finishes were acceptable...zinc or cadmium for example. Also, there were often more than one supplier for a part... so a different head mark or maybe finish. On my 71 the front bumper bracket bolts have 1 head mark on the driver's side and a different head mark on the passenger's side. Two boxes of bolts, two suppliers, two installers.
Regards,
Alan