66 427 trim tag vs assm date

[Steven C.]

I am looking at a 66 427 coupe. The stamp pad engine assembly date (Sept 65) and the trim tag date are the same day. Now I know the engine was assembled at the engine plant and then shipped to the assembly plant. Is this possible to have these dates on the same day? It is a St. Louis car.

[William C.]

Re: 66 427 trim tag vs assm date

How much time between the trim tag and final assy per the vin?

[Steven C.]

Re: 66 427 trim tag vs assm date

Bill, the VIN, per the birthday book, is the day following the trim tag and engine assembly date.

So, the car has trim tag and assembly BOTH on the same day and VIN one day later. I just don't see how the engine could be assembled the same day as the trim tag date, unless I am not understanding the manufacturing/assembly process.

[John H.]

Re: 66 427 trim tag vs assm date

Steve -

Not possible for normal production - the engine was built in Tonawanda, New York, then rail-shipped to St. Louis; took several days. The only possible scenario was an engine failure at roll test, car went to Heavy Repair, St. Louis didn't have any of that particular suffix code left in stock they could spare beyond production requirements, and had to wait for another shipment to run one down the engine dress line for the sidelined unit in repair. Does the VIN derivative look "typical"?

[Philip C.]

Is a A O Smith car *NM*

[Stephen L.]

Re: Is a A O Smith car

If its an AO SMITH body, the body and engine could have dates close, but the VIN would be a week or two later to allow for travel and final assembly at St Louis.

[Steven C.]

Re: Is a A O Smith car

Phil and Steve, as I indicated in my original post, it is a St Louis car. I am trying to get a clear pic of the pad sent to me. I have one now but it is out of focus. At this point, my sense is that it is a restamp and therefore I will take a pass. I don't need a car with a story. Thanks to all!