VIN Block Question

[Surfcuda]

Hi All, I have 1970 Barracuda Convertible I’m putting back together, 99% done. Nothing special with a 318/904 power train. After checking I discovered the 904 matches the VIN. However, the 318 block does not have a VIN Stamp at all (Yes, I know where the VIN is located on the Block) I have read the following regarding this issue here on FEBO: 1. Over the counter replacement block. 2. Factory replacement block (No Rivet or tag indicating this). 3. The VIN wasn’t stamped during production (MOPAR Mystery/Hungover Production Crew, etc…). With it being a 318 I doubt the VIN was removed nefariously (Pad is clean with mill marks). Im curious to know if there are any other possibilities for not having a VIN on the block? It’s an early production car and the date on the block indicates correct 1969 casting. I enjoy reading the MOPAR knowledge posted here. Maybe this question will divulge another MOPAR Tidbit of information from the archives that hasn’t been mentioned yet. I’m thinking most likely an over the counter replacement block, but I’m far from being a MOPAR expert. Regards Rob

 

[Xcudame]

What are the numbers stamped into the front of the block beneath where the left cylinder head sits? What is the schedule production date of you car? Trying to determine what you have. I agree, doubt someone would fudge a 318 car. The warranty tag wasn't always installed. And as a group we know some crazy things happened when building these cars. Like maybe the guy in charge of stamping the VIN on the block goes home when the whistle blows and forgot.

 

[Katfish]

How long have you owned car?
I'm guessing #3

 

[DetMatt1]

Here’s the thing though…yes there was a guy/gal responsible for applying the stamping but the engine and trans were done as an assembly in a space where they were already assembled so the stamps were done one right after the other. Then the assembly moved by inspectors making sure all was good before meeting the chassis.

 

[Surfcuda]

What are the numbers stamped into the front of the block beneath where the left cylinder head sits? What is the schedule production date of you car? Trying to determine what you have. I agree, doubt someone would fudge a 318 car. The warranty tag wasn't always installed. And as a group we know some crazy things happened when building these cars. Like maybe the guy in charge of stamping the VIN on the block goes home when the whistle blows and forgot.
[/QUOT

Xcudame, here are the numbers: PM318R 29782065. Also the Scheduled Production Date: 905. Hopefully this helps answering with my question. Regards Rob

 

[Xcudame]

2978 is September 22 (Monday). Schedule production was 905 (September 5th which was a Friday two plus weeks before.

I'm guessing the 318 installed with the VIN stamped on it had some kind of failure when they went to start it and they put another 318 in as a replacement. How else to explain the narrow differences in SPD and the date the 318 above is stamped with and without the VIN?

 

[Surfcuda]

Okay, the Fish was parked in a shipping container in 1985 (License Reg tag 85). I took possession of the car 2025. Going through the car I discovered the blank block VIN Pad. Curiosity has me attempting to solve this mystery. Again, not being an Mopar expert I post this question to the FEBO community. I’m fascinated by all the different production quirks and limited documentation on these beautiful cars. Getting some great info and questions regarding this topic. Got to pass it on!

 

[Xcudame]

Oh, in case you're curious, the "2065" was the 2,065th engine assembled that day! "PM" is the Mound Round engine plant.

 

[Surfcuda]

2978 is September 22 (Monday). Schedule production was 905 (September 5th which was a Friday two plus weeks before.

I'm guessing the 318 installed with the VIN stamped on it had some kind of failure when they went to start it and they put another 318 in as a replacement. How else to explain the narrow differences in SPD and the date the 318 above is stamped with and without the VIN?

Great info Xcudame, appreciate your breaking down the numbers & dates. I like your assessment and agree with it. Going to be interesting to see what others have to say. Regards Rob

 

[heminut]

Hi All, I have 1970 Barracuda Convertible I’m putting back together, 99% done. Nothing special with a 318/904 power train. Regards Rob

It's an E body, they are ALL special! Just sayin!

 

[Surfcuda]

Oh, in case you're curious, the "2065" was the 2,065th engine assembled that day! "PM" is the Mound Round engine plant.

Absolutely, appreciate that info because I wanted to know. So your assessment (Which I also agree with) would indicate a factory production replacement motor. I have read that these replacement motors did interestingly come without being VIN stamped. I’m sure they weren’t to concerned with the numbers matching pedigree at that time. This information is great.

 

[Surfcuda]

Maybe going out in a limb here, but this should still be considered a numbers matching car with a factory replacement motor. Please correct me if I’m wrong.

 

[Surfcuda]

Thinking it over, without documentation of it being a factory replacement motor. It probably wouldn’t be considered a numbers matching car. Even if the circumstantial evidence suggests it is a factory production replacement prior to being shipped. A 318 probably doesn’t rate anyway. Again just curious and looking for more info before it’s lost in the sands of time.

 

[DetMatt1]

I don’t think it is conclusive enough to be considered a fact beyond a shadow of doubt.