Rear Axle Code "Prefix"

[Everett Ogilvie]

I have seen several examples of rear axle stampings with a numerical prefix (a "2" in several cases) immediately in front of the letter code which specifies the ratio, i.e. 2FB 9 10 68W. I have an original piece of 1968 GM literature which decodes axles for Corvettes and trucks and it indicates a two-character prefix for "Division" which may be found in front of the ratio letter codes. If this "2" is for Division, what Division is this? Thanks.

[John H.]

Re: Rear Axle Code "Prefix"

Everett -

GM "Division" numerical codes are as follows:

1 = Chevrolet
2 = Pontiac
3 = Oldsmobile (R.I.P.)
4 = Buick
5 = GMC
6 = Cadillac

[Everett Ogilvie]

Re: Rear Axle Code "Prefix"

Thanks John - I guess that means there are a few rare Corvettes running around with Pontiac rear ends! Does anyone know what the prefix signifies? As I said, the prefix is observed, and one example can be seen in Tripoli's Chassis book on page 55 (with no explanation about the 2). I believe the numbers which represent the shift are usually at or near the end of the assembly stamping - maybe they are the prefix occasionally?