72 Engine Date Stamps for April

[Brian D.]

Hey all,

Does anyone have a small block 72 with a Flint engine stamp date of April 7 (V0407xxx)? I'm looking at a car with a stamp which has marked differences in the font of the two Zeros. Logic suggests that only the 3-character suffix stamp dies would have been changed through the day, leaving at least some other April 7 engines with this same trait.
Thank you,

[Michael W.]

Re: 72 Engine Date Stamps for April

Logic suggests that only the 3-character suffix stamp dies would have been changed through the day,

As I understand it, an individual stamp holder was set up for each engine type at the beginning of each day. This means that (in theory) the entire stamp would be undisturbed, not just the four date characters.

There is also the possibility of engines being produced on more than one assembly line, meaning two entirely different stamps.

Attend one of Al Grenning's lectures if you can.

[Terry M.]

Re: 72 Engine Date Stamps for April

As I understand it, an individual stamp holder was set up for each engine type at the beginning of each day. This means that (in theory) the entire stamp would be undisturbed, not just the four date characters.

There is also the possibility of engines being produced on more than one assembly line, meaning two entirely different stamps.

Attend one of Al Grenning's lectures if you can.

On November 9th, in Napoleon Ohio there is to be, as part of a day long Judging event, just such a seminar by Al Grenning. It is sponsored jointly by one of the Ohio and the Michigan Chapter of NCRS. Based on their agenda, which I believe is posted on the Michigan NCRS Chapter web site (links through the CONTACTS button at the top of this page) some of the GM engineers responsible for developing the Chevrolet Small Block and some of the BB High Performance parts will be also giving presentations. Some of these guys are, for want of a better way to put it, getting on in years and opportunities to hear how automotive history was made from those who made it will become fewer and fewer. For any of us who are interested in Chevrolet history this is a must attend. I will see you there.

[Brian D.]

Re: 72 Engine Date Stamps for April

I'm planning to attend that very school/seminar, as I am in Ft Wayne about 65 miles away. Oddly enough, that's where the example car I asked about is as well. Perhaps you can take a peek at that pad during the day? You can also see it in the photo set of the listing on PT's website.

Safe travels come November!

[Dick W.]

Re: 72 Engine Date Stamps for April

Not commenting on the authenticity of that pad either way but the variation in the 0's is common

[Jeff P.]

Re: 72 Engine Date Stamps for April

Has anybody ever seen the serial number stamp upside down on the engine pad for 1972 small block ?