1969 SS 124379N618639

[Brew14u]

There are a couple of numbers that seem unusual that I would appreciate some input on.  First, the cylinder head shows a cast date of A 12 8, which decodes into January 12, 1968.  If that is correct, the head is 14 months prior to engine assembly stamp of T031IJH, or March 11, 1969.  From my limited research that head is way too early relative to the engine assembly date.  Second, as Doc said in his original post, the rear axle code could be better.  The visible numbers are BV 032__G.  I would assume that the number after the 2 is missing or not visible and that the date is March 20 – 29.  Any thoughts on the code or date?

A couple other questions.  First, Cook_dw mentioned that the cowl hood may not be original, which seems likely correct because there were only about 10,026 RPO ZL2.  Of those, there were 3,675 Z11’s and about 450 Z10’s, so that leaves only about 6,000 ZL2’s available otherwise.  Is there any way to determine whether the cowl hood was original to the car?  Should it have a date code that corresponds to the body build date code?  Second, since D80 did not always appear on the cowl tag.  Is there a way to determine whether the spoilers are original to the car?  I asked the auction company if any documentation was available and they said “No original documentation available.“

[Brew14u]

I was surprised not to get any responses.  Am I off base with these questions or are these unimportant details or something else?  Useful input would be appreciated.

[cook_dw]

Not off base but for me anyways, I've not had time to reply.  As for the hood question.  Yes there should be a number stamp on the drivers side fender edge of the hood back towards the drivers door if that makes sense.  Also have to see the throttle arm coming from the firewall whether it is correct for cowl hood, harness hole and solenoid location mounting hole.  As for the D80, I'd look at the underside of the trunk lid and see if the emblem holes under the spoiler have speed nut marks in the paint.   That would be a quick way to determine plus verify it has large and small torsion rods for spoiler cars.  I'm sure there are a couple other ways to confirm that aren't popping to the top of my mind at the moment but those will help with the D80 question.


As for the head question.  Do you have a photo of the casting date?  I dont recall seeing any in the ad and unfortunately do not have time to look at the moment.  Just wanted to give a quick response with what little time I have since you called me out specifically from my comments.  And I don't mean that in a negative manner.  I see no issues with the axle stamping either.   Hope this helps. 

[Brew14u]

Thanks for the response.  Would a GM service replacement hood have a date code?  I realize it wouldn't correspond to build date.  I forgot about the larger torsion rod used with rear spoiler - excellent point.  Here is the cylinder head date code picture.

[Gars68Tux]

Thanks for the response.  Would a GM service replacement hood have a date code?  I realize it wouldn't correspond to build date. 

Not always. The ZL2 hood I purchased OTC doesn't have a date code stamped. Fenders, one does and the other does not. All 3 purchased in the early '90's.

[Brew14u]

My search continues.  I bid $55k absentee and was runner up.  It went to an onsite bidder for $55k plus the 10% buyers premium.  I appreciate the input, comments and responses.