I'm still trying to figure out what those numbers are used for, I've asked a lot of people that are knowledgeable about Buicks. I've seen them on other makes and models also.
L R coded block Ray, what a memory ! ! the vin #s are uniform, like it was done by a machine as opposed to hand stamped. the L R is very clear on the block and #s 427 follow. Gary
Yes, two of my '66's, both built in Fremont, CA have hand stampings on the data plate.... The 4 speed car has a '12' stamped above 'BODY', and the automatic car (see pic) has '22' stamped. I did see a service bulletin that stated a punch make should be made in a specific location (for example, over the third digit of the body number), when a certain warranty, or recall repair was made. It would indicate to future mechanics the repair or modification had been made to the car. The hole punched in the bottom of the '66 tags, indicates the car has roof supports to allow installation of shoulder belts. Ray, is your '65 vert Verde Green with Saddle interior? That's the combo of the '65 I bought last March! I'll have to get some pics from you, my '65 needs LOTS of work!
Thanks for the info Walt,your explanation for the numbers are the best I've heard so far.My 65GS is a four-speed convertible I have the numbers 21 stamped, you mentioned 12 for the four speeds, is that a typo? No my car is,Midnight Aqua with white interior and a white convertible top. Here's a picture of the Interior.
Ray, my '66 4 speed car is stamped 12. Was yours also built in Fremont? Those stampings could mean anything...but since the paint on the tag wasn't damaged by the stamping, it looks like it may have been stamped before the firewall was painted....
I don't remember off hand where my car was built,I see Mark Ascher posted he has a 24 on his. I guess it remains a mystery what those numbers are,I asked a lot of people about these numbers no one seems to know. yes you are correct the numbers are stamped underneath the paint so it does look like the factory stamped them.
