Alternator and Voltage Regulator date codes

[Michael M.]

When reading date codes for a correct voltage regulator and alternator for my 68, are the date codes read as model years or year of manufacture?

For instance an alternator with a date code of 7j5, would this be manufactured October 5, 1967 (for the 68 model year) or does the 7 refer to the model year, and so it would be manufactured on October 5, 1966 for the 1967 model year?

Does the same go for the voltage regulators? Thanks for any replies.

[Jack C.]

Re: Alternator and Voltage Regulator date codes

I believe that dates reflect when the alt/reg was stamped at time of manufacture. My Jan 68 built car has both items dated in the 4th quarter of 67.

[Michael M.]

Re: Alternator and Voltage Regulator date codes

Thanks Jack. That is what I thought but I wanted to verify.

[John H.]

Re: Alternator and Voltage Regulator date codes

When reading date codes for a correct voltage regulator and alternator for my 68, are the date codes read as model years or year of manufacture?

For instance an alternator with a date code of 7j5, would this be manufactured October 5, 1967 (for the 68 model year) or does the 7 refer to the model year, and so it would be manufactured on October 5, 1966 for the 1967 model year?

Does the same go for the voltage regulators? Thanks for any replies.

Michael -

"7J5" is September 5, 1967; GM stamped date codes didn't use the "I" character. The year digit refers to the calendar year, not the model year.

[John P.]

Re: Alternator and Voltage Regulator date codes

The voltage regulator will only have the year and month indicated "7J"

[Michael M.]

Re: Alternator and Voltage Regulator date codes

Thanks to all. This makes sense. I have no intentions of having my '68 judges, but I am thinking of accumulating some of the dated parts for the next person (whenever that may be) or if I change my mind. Wanted to make sure I was looking at the right date codes.

I see a lot of these regulators and alternators on Ebay, but I am nervous about buying a pig in a poke. I have heard of re-stamps on alternators and I think there are certain features regarding the alternator case and pulley fan. I'll have to do more research before diving in.

[Kenneth H.]

Re: Alternator and Voltage Regulator date codes

Michael,

Why don't you contact John Pirkle (see post above). He's the best in the business concening alternators.

Thanks.