C3 - 1971 - Frame markings?

[Greg F.]

I have a 71 small block. It's unmolested and I've found markings on the inner fiberglass panels. What other places should I expect to find markings or stencils on the frame/components? Will these markings show a date or anything similar?

Thanks,
Greg

[Chuck S.]

Re: C3 - 1971 - Frame markings?

I have a 71 small block. It's unmolested and I've found markings on the inner fiberglass panels. What other places should I expect to find markings or stencils on the frame/components? Will these markings show a date or anything similar?...

Crayon marks on the inside of panels is typical and is the date/shift.

There will be marks on the outside of the frame rails at each body mount location showing number of shims. Frame part number stencil and manufacture date is painted upside down on outside of passenger side frame rail in front of rear wheel location.

You will find paint daubs on front spindles, and possibly crayon marks at ball joint attachment points and on steering linkage. If you are lucky, you may find paint marks on the drive shaft and differential pinion flange. You will also find crayon marks on both sides of the lower firewall behind the splash shields; the driver side marks will be shorthand for certain options like "PB", "AC" etc if equipped, and the passenger side will have the job number. You will also find the job number on the bulkhead behind the driver seat, and on the compartment floor under the carpet. Option notations will also be at these same locations.

The above is not intended to be full and complete description of ALL the marks on your car; every car may be more or less unique regarding inspection marks. More information can be gained by actually examining the car during restoration and comparing notes with other owners...and, not as a way to put all the possible marks ever observed on your restoration, but to see how your car differs from other cars.

If you clean the chassis, use methods that will perserve any crayon or paint markings. The other marks will not be visible unless you take the car apart, remove carpet, etc...you may want to have the car examined by the 70-72 Team Leader for Bowtie candidacy before you start taking it apart.

[Robert C.]

Re: C3 - 1971 - Frame markings?

I had a rubber stamped date on the inside rear fiberglass above the license plate light.

[Alan S.]

Re: C3 - 1971 - Frame markings?

Hi Greg,
I found really nice clear date stamps on the interior side of the bird-cage hinge pillar, each side. You can see them if the kick panels are taken off in my car. Perhaps other cars have them in slightly/far different locations. My 71 is a mid January build. There are lots of other dated parts; they're really fun to find.
Regards,
Alan