Bell Housing Circles

[Floyd B.]

Does anyone know the story behind the circles and "4" on this bell housing? Are they date codes? or quality control marks? The dots appear to be intentional.

Thanx

Bell11.jpg

[Dan A.]

Re: Bell Housing Circles

The digit 3 represents the 3rd month. The three dots are intentional and represent the 3rd week. If the other circle had a number in the upper half that would be the blueprint change number.

[Mike B.]

Re: Bell Housing Circles

Dan,

What does the larger "4" represent in Floyd's photo? I've always wondered about these circles and number stamps. I've got two 3872444 bell housings that I've collected for my '66 L36 427. I'd like to choose the one closest to my build date. Hopefully one will predate the engine assembly date.

Here's a file shot of a typical 444 stamping. Not mine. Thanks for anyones help. Mike

444 Bellhousing 5.jpg

[Dan A.]

Re: Bell Housing Circles

I do not know what the larger 4 or the 2 you posted outside the Status and Date markers represent. I have no doubt there are those that will speculate. I would rather not.