69 parts in a 70

[bill]

A few months ago I asked about the possibility of 69 seats in my early 70 (402051)having been installed from the factory. Some said possible, others not. Recently, I've attempted to replace the seat belts with an original 70 set. The 70 set was way short. The console side (buckle)was about 4 inches shorter than what was in the car and the outside belts were at least 10 inches shorter than what's there. After a discussion with the parts house tech person, it seams that what's in the car are 69 vintage and in fact have 69 stamped in the sewn in tag. Additionally, the door side belt section attaches behind each seat on the floor, not on the side. The tech fellow said that GM had a strike in the fall of 69 and that its possible that the 69 belts (and other parts) likely were used in order to get cars out the door after the strike was over. Opinions, history, please.

[Terry M.]

Re: 69 parts in a 70 *TL*

The seat belt configuration you are describing (the outboard seat belt goes under the seat to anchor) is a 1969 feature. This, however, is not just a difference in the seat belt, but a difference in the floor construction as well.

I have judged a lot of 1970 Corvettes and have paid attention to early 1970 models because I have one. I have never noted 1969 style seat belts in a car with a 1970 VIN. I have seen 1970's as early as #4, which was built in October of 1969 - there were not a lot of the original pieces left, but it did have 1970 style seat belts and seats, although seats are easily changed.

The date on the belt is not an issue. My 1970, #2161, has belts dated in December of 1969 - they are 1970 belts. I see 1969 dated belts well into 1970 production, depending on color. The most popular interior colors would get used up first.

Not to say one would not find a 1969 body pan in an early 1970, but I would rate it highly unlikely. I suggest we communicate off the board in an effort to determine what it is you have.

Terry

[bill]

Re: 69 parts in a 70

Thanks Terry. Let me know how to contact you. It is a bit of a mystery.

[Terry M.]

Re: emails at top of post *TL*

Bill check your email.

BTW: My email address is at the top of my post.

Terry

[Michael R.]

Re: emails at top of post

I'd sure be interested to hear what you guys find out! STW, Mike