Documentation available?

Hi,

I`ve got a 71`GS that was imported to Switzerland via GM Suisse directly from Flint. As far as I know, you can`t tell if a 71` GS is a BB or SB vehicle (mine has a 350 in it now) just checking the VIN, but I recently found a plate that was originally put in the car by GM Suisse with a code that says it`s a BBB. The swiss had their own system of additionally labeling and separating the BBB from the SBB. I`m trying to get in touch with them but since there`s a long time passing and GM Suisse closed it`s factory at Biel in 1975, I was wondering if there is a list I could check on in the U.S.? Have these cars been documented?
Maybe someone can help me with some info on that issue.

Jens

 

I know there are some things to look for that can indicate the likelihood of it being a bbb or sbb car, but someone else will have to chime in with details. There's a diff in the steering rag joint for sure. But it's also hard to tell when any # of components could have been changed over the years.

 

If your 71 is a coupe then you can tell if the car was a SB vs BB by the numbers on the frame. The GS 350 coupes shared the same frame with the Skylarks, but the GS 455/Stage 1 cars came with different frames.

If you have a convertible there is no way to tell engine size because they all used the same frames.
Duane

 

Ok, that sounds interesting. Where can I see if the frame is a 455 one? Any idea of a source that can tell me:
Yes, the car bearing the number/VIN XXXX was produced date X with with engine X and options XXX...should be indicated on the build sheet, shouldn`t it? Passenger side under the vinyl of the seat, bench in the back, below the gas tank, am I right?

Too tricky, the swiss plate tells FOR SURE it`s a 455, but these gyus at the motor safty agency need to have a proof for it, that`s why I`m so eager finding proof.
No rag top, plain sweet originally cortez gold (now lime mist) white vinyl(now black) 71`coupe.
Added that plate for you guys to see, could be interesting.

Cheerio

Jens

 

Look for a bolt on rag joint coupler at the gear box. Other than that I can tell you that a lot of people think American V8's are all BIG BLOCKS

 

Plus I would check the vin on the 350 and see if it matches the VIN on the car

 

The frame part number is on the outside of the frame behind the rear drivers side wheel. There is a date code there and manufacturers name as well. It should be about a foot from the rear of the frame. You may need cleaner rags or some sandpaper to find it if it is rusty back there. Find it and tell us the mumbers you see.

 

Here are the 71 frame numbers and application codes,

3992388 "CR" (71 350 Coupe)
1237139 "BA" (71 455/Stage 1 Coupe)

 

Great info, thanks a lot to you. Car is with a friend right now for a little service, as soon as it gets back, I`ll post it right here and hope you`ll help me even further discovering the secret of the car.I`ll check on the numbers and let you know.

Jens

 

I can be of some help to you in verifying if it is a real 455 or has had a 455 installed in it. PM me with an e-mail address so I can write more specifically.