hoffz31

I am interested in buying a 1969 Coupe and the guy has given me the Serial Number. Here is the number 19S717321. This number doesn't make any sense to me as all the books I have say that the Serial Number falls between 194379S700001 to 194379S738762. The fourth digit should be a 6 if it is a coupe. The part from the S on makes sense meaning the car was built in the early part of 1969. But 19 before the S makes no sense to me. The owner claims the car is matching numbers how would I verify the motor is matching by block numbers?

Thanks for the help!
Mike

Rowdy Rat

Mike,

It appears that what the owner has given you is not the serial number, but a derivative of that number that is stamped into the block (along with the assembly date/broadcast code for that engine). The format that you have given for that serial number derivative is correct... The "1" identifies the manufacturer as Chevrolet, the "9" identifies the model year, 1969.

A similar serial number derivative can be found stamped into the frame as well.

The actual serial number is located on a metal tag attached to the left (driver side) windshield pillar post. It is in the format that your book describes.

Regards,

hoffz31

This isn't the block number right? Cause the owner says this is a 350/350 which would be 3932388?

Thanks!

Rowdy Rat

Mike,

Lots of numbers to discuss when dealing with Corvettes!

The number that you referenced, 3932388, is the casting number for the block. This number is located at the back of the block, left (driver) side on the flange that mounts the bellhousing. Actually three (there is a fourth unverified) distinct castings were used as the basis for ZQ-3 (350/300) and L-46 (350/350) engines in 1969. 3932388 is the early casting that was used... Followed by 3956618... And finally 3970010. The car in question was built in late February 1969 and is a bit early to have used the 3970010 casting, but I could see either of the other two being used.

For your 1969 L-46 application, a casting date, when the block was actually created at the foundry, is located on the right (passenger) side of the bellhousing mounting flange.

The deck surface at the front of the block on the right side extends past the cylinder head aproximately ¾" and is often called the "stamp pad" although it is really nothing more than an exposed portion of the block deck. On 1969 Corvettes there are two numbers stamped into the surface. The first is the assembly date/broadcast code which identifies the assembly plant, assembly date, and engine application and was stamped at the engine assembly plant. The second is the serial number derivative. This is stamped at the vehicle assembly plant and ties the engine (and other parts as mentioned) to a particular vehicle/serial number.

There are also addition foundry numbers and codes which are cast into the block, some known while others remain a mystery. Typically these numbers aren't relevant to many people and don't play a part in identifying an engine.

Regards,

hoffz31

I have been using the Corvette Black Book as a reference for the numbers. Do you recommend a book that tells me what I need to know about finding the numbers on the car and matching them?

Thanks for all the help!

Rowdy Rat

Mike,

Nothing wrong with the Black Book... There are very few errors and it provides some of the more common numbers that are checked. Its major drawback is that it is limited in the amount of detail it provides.

If you are into number crunching and details pertaining to stock Corvettes, it is really tough to beat the NCRS Technical Information Manual & Judging Guide (although most NCRS members refer to it as the "Judging Manual") for the model year range in question. This was put together by NCRS members to document various details on factory assembled cars and is a real treasure chest if you lean toward the stock side of the hobby. Lots of great details and information... Cost is around $25 or so if I'm not mistaken and is available from their website... http://www.ncrs.org

NCRS also offers a specifications guide for various model year ranges in a "pocket" format... A little smaller in size than your Corvette Black Book. It's basically a list of important numbers... Cylinder head castings, block castings, carburetor numbers, etc. There aren't any written details as in the TIM&JG mentioned above, but it makes it easy to check just about any part number... Good book to have when walking the grounds at Carlisle!

Regards,

hoffz31

Thanks Rowdy,

I ordered a pocket guide as there is a show this weekend up in Saratoga that is suppose to have a some vettes. Hopefully I can find one if the other deal doesn't work out.

Thanks again!
Mike