1973 VIN

[Calvin C.]

In 1973 would the VIN number also indicate if a car is an auto or 4 speed. If the original motor was removed could someone have switch from 4 speed to auto or auto to 4 speed and clone the car so you could not verify what it was originally, barring documentation. I have a 73 454 that I want to restore someday. The VIN has the Z for 454. Not sure if it was originally auto or 4 speed. It shows evidense of shift linkage but may have had a frame change. I would rather make it a 4 speed if it was one originally. It is automatic, convertible now. I have verified it is a convertible.

cal

[Michael W.]

Re: 1973 VIN

Your vin will not tell you whether the car came with a four speed or auto transmission. One way to determine is to see if the frame is original (VIN stamp near the #4 body mount)and whether it has a removeable crossmember or not.

Only the automatic cars had the removeable crossmember.

[Calvin C.]

Re: 1973 VIN

I will check the frame but I think this frame is a replacement, and it is also damaged and will need major repair or replacement. I was planning on getting a new frame. So if it needs a new frame can I make it 4 speed if I can not verify what it was originally. I can find a correct cast and dated block, (the VIN will be wrong so I would lose some points if it was judged).

cal

[Tom R.]

Re: 1973 VIN

Besides the slant of the characters, the surface looks too finished!

[Michael W.]

Re: 1973 VIN

It's your car, you can do whatever you feel comfortable doing with it.

[Calvin C.]

Re: 1973 VIN

I just do not want to maker it something it is not and decide to have it judged and be surprised. I have several corvettes and I wanted this one as a NCRS restoration since I have to do so much to it. My 1972 that is my daily driver, it was converted from a 4 speed to a auto. It was easy to tell because the frame is original. I am slowly returning it to stock configuration. I will get the judging manual ofcourse.

thanks
cal