LS6 Chevelle registry (long)

[SS427]

Recently an LS-6 registry was suggested on several of the Chevrolet web sites and I was asked to head it up. I stated that I would give it another try as this is the only muscle car that does not have its own registry and is badly needed but only if the owners would take an interest. If the last few days are any indication which has been overwhelming, then now is the time. As many site members not only own them, dozens have come forward and offered their assistance both physically and financially.

The purpose of the LS-6 Chevelle Registry will be to gather and compile accurate historical information about these rare cars to include the El Camino, coupe and convertible, list many facts and hopefully dispel much of the inaccurate information that is out there. Much help is needed and several members have already offered their assistance both in knowledge, historical information and financial backing. I still need more help in the way of individual car information, photos, documents and historical information to give these cars the attention they deserve.

Once a web site has been developed, (I can use a lot of help there) much of the general information will be available to share. Since I have a full time job, a restoration business, a family and lack much of the web site knowledge needed, that is the one area I can initially use the most help on. The registry will not be intended to be used as a way to increase the value of one’s car or to belittle another. Only to list the facts as best I can. Unlike other registries, the LS-6 has no GM or dealer documented list of VIN numbers to verify a car’s originality. Because these cars are nearly impossible to prove in some cases, I hope to have some type of a rating system where a car with complete owner and documentation being rated one way while only a car having all the right equipment but no proof other than maybe original owners affidavit being rated yet another way.

I am in the very early stages of setting this all up and can use any input both positive and negative. I am new to this and will take anyone’s suggestion providing they are in the best interest of the hobbyist. I have been restoring, documenting and authenticating these cars for several years all the meanwhile compiling information from those cases in the hopes of someday being able to provide a service to owners and hobbyists. One thing I lack is much of the GM documentation which I know several of you have and hopefully will offer to add to the site and be recognized as the donor. I am by no means an expert and will open myself up to anyone who is that can offer their assistance with knowledge, information, photos, documents, etc. I am only the person who was elected and offered to head it up and spend the time to put it all together. At some time in my life, I would like to write a book on these great cars but that may likely be in another lifetime.

At some point in time, I would like to include the L-78 Chevelles and El Caminos as these were in fact the predecessor to the LS-6 and are also rarer. These high performance cars also need to have a registry and I would like to eventually include them. Obviously there are people on these sites that are much better educated on the L-78 and would hope they would like to partake in that end of it.

With all that said and done, anyone willing to share stories, photos, documents, build sheets, POP information, GM documents, original dealer information, VIN numbers, cowl tag information, etc, please send them to;

Rick Nelson
20560 Italy Ave
Lakeville, MN 55044
ls6registry@(removemefirst)hotmail.com

Any information that you supply that you want kept private, please mark as such and that will be honored. Eventually a list of VIN numbers will be listed on the site but with the last three digits shown as “xxx” to protect the privacy of the owner. I have well over 100 LS-6 and L-78 build sheets in my possession currently but would like to add to their information such as cowl tag and owner history if possible. Obviously items such as complete VIN numbers, owner information and some cowl tag information will be kept private. I would prefer to get full size color photocopies of the build sheets as opposed to actual photos.

I hope that I can get everyone’s backing and blessing on this as the hobby desperately needs a registry for these cars and hopefully some day, many of the clones out there can be disproved. In no way will this site condone misuse as a way to help someone clone these cars and some information regarding the LS-6 will be kept private for that very reason. I thank you in advance for any assistance, opinions and/or information that you can provide. Several sites have already offered their home page as a place to list this registry. Please understand this registry will not be affiliated with any one site but rather use all the resources possible to help the registry grow.
Rick Nelson

Rick,

I'm looking forward to helping in anyway I can. Let me know what else you need.

[Chevy454]

This sounds like a natural fit for the Team Chevelle site...you gonna be workin' with Al on any of this?

[SS427]

Rob, yes I am working along with Team Chevelle. Al and I have always worked well together. Hopefully I can get the support of the sYc as well. Many members/owners have already been in touch with me and thanks in advance for their support.

[sYc]

[ QUOTE ]
..... Hopefully I can get the support of the sYc as well. ...

[/ QUOTE ]

Rick, no problem. Glad several members have already stepped up and supplied you with info. Hopefully others will do so in the not so distant future.

Good luck!!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[Belair62]

Sounds like a worthy project...hopefully you will get off to a good start...

[Chevy454]

I've got some stuff around here somewhere from my LS6 days, I'll dig it up and pass it along... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[SS427]

[ QUOTE ]
...hopefully you will get off to a good start...

[/ QUOTE ]

Thanks Bob, it is already off to a great start. I hope I did not add more grief to my life but this is something I have felt was necessary since I got involved with the LS-6. Hopefully people will donate information to the cause and put all politics aside as many feel the registry is not a good thing because of cloning?????? In my opinion, this can ONLY help that cause!!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

[bkhpah]

There are a few LS/6 Chevelles in our town. A friend just pulled a Black/Black vinyl/ non striped red interior 4 speed car out of hibernation. The car was sold new at our local Hi-Po dealer in New Alexandria PA, Grabiak Chevrolet. There is also a shadow grey auto out of there. The friend who just scored the black car also has a Fathom Blue/White top/ interior LS/6. I will give them your info...BKH

[70 ls6 convert]

This sounds like a great idea,count me in!!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[SS427]

Thanks Kris, ever since I got the pictures of your car, I was counting on you and look forward to hearing more about the car.

[mc25t190]

Thanks Rick for your diligence on this project. I have owned a couple and sold, my mistake, but as the highest HP production car ever made , it deserves it! I have the previous info on both the hardtop and convertible and will get it to you. Best! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif

[mmcporter]

Rick,

Thanks for making this happen. I would be happy to send you my car's buildsheet but I think you already have the data. Let me know if you need it and I'll send it along. Also, I would be happy to assist in any way that I can. IMHO I'd hold off on the LS5 inclusion for a while until you nail down the LS6 portion, which will not be easy by any stretch.

Thanks,

Morris

[YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY]

How's the registry coming along?

[SS427]

The information coming in is coming along nicely and several unknown cars have surfaced including a 1 of 1 convertible. However, the registry with regards to the web page is going slow. That will take some time as I want to do it right the first time.

[YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY]

Well done by you, it's great when unknown cars register - it's worth the effort right there!

[Canucklehead]

Whats the deal on the 1 of 1 convert?

[Don_Lightfoot]

[ QUOTE ]
Whats the deal on the 1 of 1 convert?

[/ QUOTE ]
Don't know if I would ask Rick that question http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/no.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif

[ORIGLS6]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
Whats the deal on the 1 of 1 convert?

[/ QUOTE ]
Don't know if I would ask Rick that question http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/no.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

Another of those "No good deed goes unpunished" deals. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

[Vettefinderjim]

Way to go Rick!!

I am very happy to see you come forward and WANT TO SHARE. For years I have said we are all growing older and sure won't be able to share once we are gone.......and why take this fun hobby to the grave.

If we look at the Shelby Registry we can see what can be a very positive thing. Any one that owns a "Real" Shelby WANTS to be included in the Registry...it adds value to the car and creditablity to the car and hobby. I also like the way the Registry tells the story of history of each car. Like how it was born white, then changed to blue....rear fenders flared....then replaced after drag racing and now red and in concour condition.....with its sixth engine !! etc., etc., etc.

It is the history that counts. These are real cars with a story, and let's face it, no one bought a LS-6 to look at and show only.

I wish great success, and if I can help any way please call or write.

I will send you stuff as I get it. I know of a one owner black /black Chevelle that is still owned by the original owner. In time I will be able to share the info.

Regards,
JIM

[SS427]

[ QUOTE ]
I know of a one owner black /black Chevelle that is still owned by the original owner. In time I will be able to share the info.
Regards,
JIM

[/ QUOTE ]

Thanks Jim,
Would this owner be in the San Diego area if I recall? If so, I met him at Chevellabration a couple of years ago. Great guy to talk to and had lots of photos with him.

The one difference between the Shelby and other registries is those people seem to want to share their cars. The LS-6 owners are very reserved and cautious. Many are very quick to call and ask for restoration help right up until you ask for information on their cars for the registry and suddenly they clam up even though I know they have a build sheet car. For the most part, everyone has been a big help so far but there are still many owners (and paper collectors) who have not come forth to submit the information that can help the cause which is not a big issue for me since I benefit in no way from it other than to help the hobby. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

The one nice part is I have met some very nice people and come across some REALLY rare cars including L-89's and LS-6 convertibles. I spent the entire day with an L-89 owner who showed me tons of documents and shared many stories. That is what this is all about.
Rick

[copo69]

If the same info that is available for the Shelby's was available for the Chevy cars then I suspect more owners would be willing to divulge info. You also wouldn't have questioning of your car's pedigree and the less than honest people taking advantage of info to the same extent.

I think Rick should be applauded for his efforts in helping LS6 owners. It amazes me some of the email I've received, in regards to people that own LS6's and want further info (especially about early and/or Baltimore cars) and yet are not contributing to the Registry. When asked about it, they say something like "well I'm getting it together or I know my car is real, why should I help?" The way I look at it is talk is cheap...if you want to be included send the guy (Rick Nelson) your paperwork. If you don't have stuff to hide, then man up and join. It can only help with the sharing of info and bring recognition to a particular car. If I seem passionate, it is because this is something I really believe in and only see psoitives for the LS6/Chevelle community.

Respectfully,

GSC

[sYc]

Rick, hang in there, it just takes time. When we first launched the sYc and began tracking cars, we encountered the same problem. But, as owners realized that we were not going to use the info for anything other then research, most have been more then willling to share info.

I think most folks will agree that this sharing of info has been good for the hobby.

[YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY]

[ QUOTE ]
Rick, hang in there, it just takes time. When we first launched the sYc and began tracking cars, we encountered the same problem. But, as owners realized that we were not going to use the info for anything other then research, most have been more then willling to share info.

I think most folks will agree that this sharing of info has been good for the hobby.

[/ QUOTE ]

Ditto!

[ACES 070]

Rick, with all the help you have extended myself and alotta others, I will do or help in anyway that I can, count me in also !! Nick

[Nasblu]

I have a sad story about a black/black white stripes cowl hood 70 LS6 that a guy I know of bought brand new. The car was a LS6- bench seat m-22 rock crusher 12bolt 4:10 gears. The guy bought the car brand new. He later sold the car to another gentleman who was into dirt track racing and cut the chevelle up and used it for several years on the local dirt track circuit. I love all chevys but I am a corvette guy at heart so I am not up on my chevelle production information. I understand that back in the day that black was a rare color, how rare was black on black with whites stripes LS6.

[SS427]

Actually, Black on black with white stripes is fairly common. I know of many currently. Shadow Grey ones are quite rare as well as Black Cherry and the special order colors.
Rick

[Nasblu]

thanks Rick,

I thought black was rare at least it was for corvettes back then. If fact 1969 was the last year for black on vettes until I believe the late 70's

[number77]

Are you guys aware of the two ls6 chevelles recently found in 18-wheeler trailers?

[SS427]

Yes I am. I will be there this weekend inspecting them. There have actually been several new ones that have popped up lately. Some convertibles and some hardtops. I may also inspecting some of these in the near future.

[mmcporter]

What's the story---I'd like to hear it.

[SS427]

No much to tell. Both were pretty solid cars with paperwork and relatively good restoration starting material. At least one non original LS-6 went with one car but I believe the other came with no LS-6. I honestly did not spend a whole lot of time on either car as we had a lot to look at that day.
Rick

[Stuart Adams]

Rick, this Black LS 6 on the for sale page, is it listed in the registry?

[SS427]

Stuart,
I knew of the car but I do not believe I have a copy of any of the documents but there is quite a pile I have not gone through yet. Unfortunately, I have been so busy with all the LS-6 restorations that the registry has taken a back seat. I need to get back on it and get all new information organized. One thing I need to clarify however, I may list a car in my notes but without putting my hands on an original buildsheet or getting some other solid proof that it is original, it is listed as a supposed LS-6. Keep in mind, for the most part everything I receive from car owners are simply copies and I am for now taking people at their word. Also, just because I have paperwork does not mean the car still retains all it's original drivetrain which is VERY rare on these cars not unlike the Yenkos. With that in mind, do not just assume at this point that because the car is on my list that it is in fact a real car. Unless I have been able to inspect the car or some LS-6 authority like Chris W. or Jeff. D. has documented it, I am just listing it as a possible real car for the time being. I am always happy to help anyone though if they have questions on a car for sale and I know anything about it.
Rick

[PLATINUM6BBL]

I eat lunch just about every day with a retired Navy Senior Chief who had owned a LS-6 Chevelle new. Seems he had ordered a LS-6 El Camino but when he went to pick it up it only had a 396 in it. Since it was sitting next to the Chevelle he told the dealership he take the Chevelle instead. IIRC he told me it only lasted him around 2400 miles before he balled it up into a pile of junk. When he got his insurance check he went and bought a Land Cruiser http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/hmmm.gif. I'll ask him if he still has any paperwork from it.
Lon

[SS427]

Thanks Lon,
My address is listed in the beginning of this thread.
Rick

[pur66msl]

Hello Rick, I am new to this sight. I'm looking forward to this registry. I was directed to this sight from my Team Chevelle membership. I have a 66 Chevelle SS. A good friend of mine has what we believe to be a unrestored 56,000 mile LS6. It was sold new at Byrne Bros. Chevrolet in White Plains NY. I am inquiring about Byrne Bros. info. I was wondering if anyone knows how many LS6's they sold and if anyone remembers a White with Black stripes Automatic with 4:10's. This is what my friend has. With what we have decoded so far it is pointing to a real LS6. He bought it in 1988. We have traced it back to 1982. All previous owners say it is a real LS6. The owner of the car that bought it in 1984 can not remember the man's name that he bought it from in 1982 but does remember being told that the car was in storage from 1974 to 1982. Looking under this car supports it not being driven in wet weather since there is no undercoating and the bottom of car is pretty much rust free, barely any surface rust. This spring we are going to start looking for the build sheet. But incase we don't find it we would like to get as much info. about Byrne Bros. or even maybe be put in contact with someone from the Byrne family that may remember this car. And if we are real lucky there may be some documentation lying aroud someplace. If this turns out to be the real deal and we do find build sheet we will be contributing to the registry. I sent a private message to Mr. Arone sice he has a Byrne Bros. camaro asking for any information. I haven't heard back from him yet. As I find out more about car I will pass it along here as well as team chevelle sight. Thank you for your time and all your doing. Looking forward to any info you may be able to share.

Wayne

[Xplantdad]

Welcome Wayne. I was the person who posted the link to this site http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[pur66msl]

Thanks Bruce. Hope you liked the pictures. I'm going to try to get some better pics this summer. Hopefully by then we will have proof it's a real LS6.

Wayne

[Xplantdad]

Wayne, the people here are wonderful... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[SS427]

Wayne,
Welcome to the site and thanks for the kind words. As far as your friends car, there are several VERY knowledgeable people on the east coast that could likely authenticate the car. Most charge time and expenses for this but is nothing compared to the value that it puts on the car. I will also be out on the east coast this summer and could possibly do the same depending on location.

The car is likely a Baltimore produced car and it is VERY common for the build sheets to be in them. For ease, remove the bottom screws on both door panels and gently pull the bottom away from the door. Using a flashlight, shine it up inside. They are very often glued to the back of the door panel. There are other places they are found on Baltimore cars but this is the most common and easiest place to start looking. If you could e-mail or PM me the VIN and cowl tag info, I will go through mu build sheets and see if I can get you more information. I believe I do have other Byrne LS-6 sheets in my files and will look for them. Thanks again for your input. Please have your friend get in touch with me. I would LOVE to have a bunch of pictures of this car as well. Please stay in touch.
Rick

[pur66msl]

Hey Rick, Thanks for getting back to me. I sent you a private message with that info. you asked for. Car was built in Flint Michigan not Baltimore. It sure would be nice if you had what we were looking for from Byrne. Looking forward to hearing from you.

Wayne

[PLATINUM6BBL]

Rick,
Talked to the Senior Chief today. He doesn't have anything from the Chevelle. He said it was red/black stripes/black interior console automatic. He bought it from Butler Motors in New London, CT while stationed there. Lasted until 1971.
Lon

[SS427]

Thanks for checking with him Lon. It sounds like a nice car none the less.
Rick

[Big Block Bill]

Rick, I have sent you a PM

Thanks, Bill

[Big Block Bill]

Rick, I have sent you a another PM

Thanks, Bill

[pur66msl]

Hello again Rick, It's been a while but I have taken some more numbers of that LS6 I've been talking about. I took the driver side inner fender out and was able to get to the spot by oil filter for the vin. After wire brushing and a little sandblasting I was able to expose some of the numbers. I can clearly make out the last 3 digits and 3/4 of the 4th to last digit as well as partial digits of 5th,6th,and 7th. All numbers are a match to his vin. So having the last 4 readable and matching vin makes me believe that this is a true LS6. The only number that I can't seem to locate is the vin on the transmission. I've looked on the edge of tranny just above the pan behind the shift linkage and all around as much as I can see. However the casting number is 8623462 and the tag on the passenger side is 70 CY 2002 which I believe is tranny used with CRR block. I would like to be able to find vin on tranny so any help with location would be appreciated. I will private message you all the other numbers that I've taken of car. I think you will agree that all date codes and casting numbers that I've found all point to it being a real LS6. If you see any discrepancies please let me know. Sometime this summer I will get a chance to look for build http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gifsheet. Also this car has original fuel lines brake lines and all clips are still rust free and in tact. Please be on the lookout for my private message and hope these http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif numbers are helpful in your registry. Thanks, Wayne

[Stefano]

What does the trans ID tag show?

[Mr70]

"the tag on the passenger side is 70 CY 2002 which I believe is tranny used with CRR block."
True..and 2002 is the serial number of the TH400.
Look for a 3 digit number stamped into the same tag above 2002 to determine the date assembled and if authentic to your Chevelle.

[SS427]

Wayne,
Thank you for offering to add to the registry. As far as the VIN on the transmission, you are looking in the right place already. I will say that more often then not, I do not find a VIN on automatics. I do not know why that is the case but those are my findings.

The fact that this cars history can be traced back to around 1974-1982 makes it likely that it is in fact the real deal. An (original) copy of the build sheet or other paperwork is really the only solid way to authenticate the car. Unfortunately, Flint cars rarely ever have sheets in them so don't expect one but look anyway.
I look forward to adding the information to the registry and thank you for your continued support. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif
Rick

[mockingbird812]

Rick - sent some info to your "ls6registry" email today. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[SS427]

Got it. Thanks for the information you provided Sam. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

Very interesting car and I would be happy to add it to the registry. I am VERY far behind on it due to the restoration business and need to get it organized. Maybe I can get my helper to take that over so we can get a web page organized. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif
Rick

[HiHorse]

The registry should also keep a file on the fake ones that tried to register.

[SS427]

We do.

[SUPERSPORT]

Does any one have any info on LS6 Vin # 136370A118941
Any help would be greatly appreciated!! Thank you!

[Mr70]

Possibly one of the very first LS-6's ever assembled at Lakewood.