Re: Some VN & Theft Proof numbers from the salvage yard trip.

Posted by d c On 2015/4/7 20:08:05

I did not realize the paint codes and interior trim were punch stamped on the early cars. Just assumed they were all embossed. When did they make the change from stamped to embossed?
That firewall and cowl of the white car pictured above with the blank TP number looks different to me. I have been told I have a better knack for spotting suspect body work, metal work, bondo and such even through layers of paint. I guess 35 or 40 years of pouring over vehicles may give a leg up on such issues compared to the casual observer. That white car is quite rusted and is a parts car in a salvage yard I take it from the post so I will make observations that I would only make upon inspecting a car in person had it been an owners restored car. That pinch weld lip looks suspect to me. Just does not look right. The angle on the lip, the edge not straight. There is no indent over the heater box with the seam sealer blob like on mine and many others pictured here. Are we sure there were no stampings with blank TP to be used for collision repair back then? Maybe just an early production inconsistancy?
As for an aboration, I dont agree. As an owner of a 55 Clipper Custom with the only known 222XXX TP I find it an interesting and as yet unexplained oddity.