production date for 1954

[Chris S.]

I am currently in the process of doing a frame off on a 1954. The veh has not been touched since 1968. A prev owner installed a V8. But I feel I have the "correct" engine for the car. My questions are.. Q. My VIN is E54S003803 - About when was this veh produced?


Q. The engine I have is 0747032F54YG - Is this a " correct engine" for this VIN?


Any other information that someone could provide would most helpful. Any other sources that folks have found helpful would be appreciated. Feel free to contact me. Thanks Chris

[Bill W.]

Re: production date for 1954

I dont know about your date but 2765 was built on 5/24/54

[Chuck G.]

Re: production date for 1954

Bill's estimate of his build date is correct. Nobody really knows. 54 production began in St Louis in late, late, December of 53 and continued till December of 54. What is the casting date of your block? The ID number sequence falls in line with those listed in Noland Adams' book. With a number that high, I would expect an "E" block...maybe even "F". Chuck

[Chuck G.]

Re: production date for 1954 addendum

Dennis Moore's Birthday Book gives your car's assembly date as June 17, 1954. Hope this helps. Chuck

[Chris S.]

Re: production date for 1954 addendum

Chuck Thank you very much. That gives me a starting point for verfying numbers. Where can I obtain the book you speak of? So far I have obatined 2 engines - only one fits the date, trans, radiator, and 2 sets of carbs. I am doing quite a bit of research work first. Other questions. Q. How does the NCRS and other feel about refinishing with today's single stage. I have Glasurit at my disposal. How about metal etch, then epoxy primer, then single stage on the frame and components? I was going to dip the frame first. Q. How does the NCRS and others feel about NOS vs repro when doing this type of resto. Any other information you could provide would be most helpful. Thanks for your last speedy reply. Chris

[Chuck G.]

Re: production date for 1954 addendum

Dennis Moore's "Birthday Book" is available through NCRS headquarters in Cincinnati. Regarding single stage Urethane...I don't want to go there. There has been MUCH discussion on this board about Urethane vs. Lacquer. Nitrocellulose lacquer is "correct", but is unavailable and illegal in many states. Regarding the frame, I think you have a good idea. Make sure you use the "correct" shade/gloss of black. NOS parts are always best, BUT, in this vintage car, you'll have a tough time locating NOS parts for everything. Excellent reproductions are available. What is the date of the block that you're planning to use? I'll again bet it's E or F. I've never seen a 54 Corvette engine cast later than F, even though they built the cars through December, 54. Hope this helps. Chuck