Alternate VIN location

[Tommy]

I just pulled my L78/L89 engine from the car in hopes of finding A Vin on the engine since the block was decked by A previous owner. Isn't an alternate VIN location around the oil filter area? Thanks

Tommy http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif

[Mr70]

It's Possible. http://www.camaros.org/1969_V8engine_stamp_location.jpg

[firstgenaddict]

I believe that it was either / Or but not both.
It is the cast boss beside the oil filter. It is not a machined surface.
There is a way to pull the milled off numbers out of the block using some type of chemical/ acid. This is because the structure of the cast iron is changed when struck with the gang stamp. The police use this when dealing with ground off serial numbers on car frames / guns.
Anyone know about this procedure?

[Tommy]

Alan Colvin sent me an e-mail once about raising the numbers using acid but I didn't want to try it with the Aluminum heads still on the block, I didn't know what might happen. I don't have the VIN by the oil filter so I guess I need to get that e-mail back out now. Thanks guys

Tommy http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif

[njsteve]

The process used by law enforcement uses heat and an etching formula that allows the image of the prexisting numbers to appear for a very short time. The combination of heat + acid molecularly destresses the pounded-in portion of the metal and allows to it raise just long enough for a photo to be taken. The photos are then used as the evidence because the engine pad then reverts back to a destressed condition and the numbers are then lost forever. (Sounds like something out of Raiders of the Lost Ark). It's an magical process to watch, something on the level of alchemy. If you have a local state police or county crime lab in your area you might want to give them a call. Most of the older guys in law enforcement I know, have an affection for old musclecars, and might be happy to assist you. Plus, it gives them practice in this tricky procedure, in a way that won't jeopardize a case if it doesn't work out well. -NJSteve

[68z302]

That VIN picture could provide some verification for the future if you documented the process http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

[WILMASBOYL78]

The alternate position was not used consistently by all GM plants. I have never seen it on any Nova BB cars or heard of it from other sources. But, there is alaways the first time. Hey Tommy you going to Atlanta??

Tom Williams http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[Tommy]

Tom, I sent you an e-mail about the Atlanta show which I do hope to attend. I'll pass on the results when I get them off the engine. I have several irons in the fire now trying to get ready for A couple of trips this year so I guess it'll hang on an engine stand for A while.

Tommy http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/3gears.gif