In 1976, Checker Motors began manufacturing parts for GM. I remember seeing open rail cars delivering sub-frames to the Van Nuys Plant. Hemmings had an article about parts that Checkers were making for GM:
https://www.hemmings.com/stories/how-checker-remained-in-business-after-the-end-of-taxi-production-building-everything-including-the-kitchen-sink/
Very interesting info!
The assembly plants were still paying outside suppliers by check when I worked at Van Nuys. When Corporate sent out an advisory that fraudulent invoices were being sent out to various locations, I asked about an invoice we had recently received from Checker Motors. I was surprised when I was told that they are one of our best suppliers.
Quote from: GMAD_Van Nuys on April 26, 2026, 12:52:15 PMThe assembly plants were still paying outside suppliers by check when I worked at Van Nuys. When Corporate sent out an advisory that fraudulent invoices were being sent out to various locations, I asked about an invoice we had recently received from Checker Motors. I was surprised when I was told that they are one of our best suppliers.
Hi Mark..long time no talk. Anyways, interesting that Checker was suppling GM with parts, even sub frames. Thats wild!
--Scott
Scott,
Took the 1979 Trans Am with the Checker Motors sub-frame for its bi-annual emissions test. Passed as usual, but no fun for the technician as the distributor is located at the rear of the engine and you have to be careful removing the vacuum line when checking the advance as the motor gets quite hot back there! - Mark
Quote from: GMAD_Van Nuys on June 14, 2026, 11:51:25 AMScott,
Took the 1979 Trans Am with the Checker Motors sub-frame for its bi-annual emissions test. Passed as usual, but no fun for the technician as the distributor is located at the rear of the engine and you have to be careful removing the vacuum line when checking the advance as the motor gets quite hot back there! - Mark
Mark,
Glad the Trans-Am passed smog! Anyways, I sold the 442 last year and bought a 1970 AMX! PM me and we can discuss.
Take care, Scott.