C2--Find the VIN

[Gretchen Segars]

Hi All,

I think I've inherited a mess and I hope you can help! My grandfather passed away and I inherited the 1966 Corvette Coupe that he was in the process of restoring. I am trying to locate the VIN on this car. I found the Trim Tag under the passenger side dash and expected the VIN tag to be there as well, but it's not there. Is there anywhere else it would be? If not, is there anywhere else on the car to find the VIN. I know the engine isn't original, so unfortunately, that won't help. I appreciate your responses!

[William C.]

Re: C2--Find the VIN

Unfortunately you have to go onto the frame, right in front of and also on top of the rear frame kickup. Generally it may require lifting the body somewhat, and if rusted, it becomes more difficult.

[Gretchen Segars]

Re: C2--Find the VIN

Hi Bill,

Thank you, but unfortunately, I don't know where the rear frame kickup is? Can you help? I don't think the frame is too rusted.

[William C.]

Re: C2--Find the VIN

The kickup is the area where the main frame rail running under the rocker panel area meets a section that goes up and then back to allow space for the rear axles to move up and down. The VIN is on the drivers side and stamped on the top surface of the main rail and the top of the kickup area. It is difficult to see because of the clearance between the frame surface and the body of the car being not too great. That's why the body mounts must be loosened and the body lifted upward a little in some cases.

[Gretchen Segars]

Re: C2--Find the VIN

Hi Bill,

Thank you for your help! It seems to already be a bit more work than we bargained for, but I'm already enjoying the adventure!

[David W.]

Re: C2--Find the VIN

The 6 million dollar question is what does the title say? It could be a reissued vin number in which case a new vin plate may be located in various places, depending on where the state authorities placed it. The title would reference a reissued vin if that were the case.

[David D.]

Re: C2--Find the VIN

Gretchen, You may want to check the VIN number on the title, it may just have a state-issued VIN. If it does, the same number on the title is usually stamped on a foil tag, attached to the driver's side rear door jam. Just above the door latch striker. Just a thought. Dave

[Gretchen Segars]

Re: C2--Find the VIN

Hi David,

Thank you for responding. The title doesn't mention a reissued VIN, but I only have found a photocopy of the title. The missing VIN tag makes me suspicious and I want to verify the VIN on the car and the title before we begin work. I guess I'll have to get someone to find the VIN on the frame (like Bill mentioned). What are the reasons someone would remove the VIN tag?

[Gretchen Segars]

Re: C2--Find the VIN

Hi Dave,

Thanks for responding. Unfortunately, there is no foil tag on the driver's side door. This car is REALLY rough. Do you know anything about Trim Tags? My trim tag says this car was an A body (A.O. Smith), but the VIN I have says "S" for St. Louis assembly. Can a car be an A.O. Smith body, but have an "S" in the VIN? I think it makes sense that an A.O. Smith body car could be assembled in St. Louis, but right now I'm just trying to make sure things are on the up-and-up. I truly appreciate your help!

Gretchen

[David W.]

Re: C2--Find the VIN

The frame vin can be found without lifting the body although you have to be patient. Remove the drivers side rear tire. You will see the frame behind the tire where it curves upward to go over the rear axle, as Bill said. The area you want to look at is at the highest point of the frame, i.e, directly behind the top of the rear wheel if it were bolted on. You will see a 1/4 - 1/2 inch gap between the frame and the body. The vin is on top of the frame rail inside that opening. Get a flashlight and a slim flat mirror to see if you can see the vin stamping. I hope my description is clear.

[Gretchen Segars]

Re: C2--Find the VIN

Hi Dave,

THANK YOU! Your description is very clear and I'm looking forward to working on that in the morning when we have more light. I'll let you know what we find! Again, I really appreciate all your help!

Gretchen

[Wayne M.]

Look here first

If the car is a '66, the stamped VIN derivative will be found where shown by the orange handle, and NOT where the pink eraser is located -- the later is for '63 thru mid(?) 1965's. This is the rear location of the two assembly plant frame stampings.

You may be able to get a finger in there to clean the top surface without lifting the body. You may be even able to feel the depression in the frame where the "whack" hit. A dental mirror is what I use to read the characters.

[Stephen L.]

Re: C2--Find the VIN

The body was built by AO SMITH but the final assy point was St Louis, therefore the "S" in the VIN. The fact that the trim tag is present while the VIN tag is missing makes one wonder.....

[Gretchen Segars]

Re: Look here first

Hi Wayne,

I can't thank you enough. We're going to get started on this tomorrow when we have more light. I really appreciate your help!

Gretchen

[Gretchen Segars]

Re: C2--Find the VIN

Hi Steve,

Thank you for clarifying this. I am wondering myself and I hope to get this resolved soon! I appreciate your help!

Gretchen