Re: [Amc-list] Vin Numbers (early 60s)

[Frank Swygert <farna@xxxxxxx>]

Well Joe, the number you gave is for a 62 American. The only thing a pre January 66 serial number tells you is the series (model) and year. Starting in 65 they gave engine as well (before 65 there was only one engine size for each series, except the 64 Classic, which as 195.6 or 287, different starting serial number for each). A true VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) didn't come into effect at AMC until the US Gov't mandated it for January 1966 and later. 

Starting serial number for the 1962 American was B375001. For the 63 it was B515001. Both were for Kenosha built cars. An export kit would start with BK, a Canadian built car with BT (both Americans). Either you gave the number for the 62 parts car, or the number on the hardtop has been changed out. 

The serial number is just a unique ID number for the car. Serial numbers were assigned as orders came in and have nothing to do with when it was produced. There's a final assembly number at the bottom of the door tag. 



---------------
Date: Mon, 10 Mar 2008 09:29:34 -0700 (PDT)
From: Joe Smith <know_ware@xxxxxxxxx>

I vaguely remember someone saying something about being able to decode a vin number.
The vin number on my 63 American Hardtop is B377084.
Thanks!
Joe

-- 
Frank Swygert
Publisher, "American Motors Cars" 
Magazine (AMC)
For all AMC enthusiasts
http://farna.home.att.net/AMC.html
(free download available!)

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