So here is my position on calling my 1968 Convertible Camaro a true SS. Some say unless you have the VIN stamped on the engine there is no way to tell. Well here is my argument and documentation backing up my position.
1) I have the original waybill for delivery with the VIN on the document from 1967
2) I have the original protect-o-plate on the warranty booklet with RPO L48 combo that came only on SB SS
3) All information regarding build dates, codes and timeframes match perfectly on the car.
So with that said here is what I have so far:
Engine: 350/295 SS RPO L48
Protect-o-plate Location E Value=V1016MS-Flint Motor Oct 16 350/295 L48 SS Small Block MT
Block Casting Number 3914678 Cast date Stamp J47= Sept 4th 1967- This would be correct for the engine casting date to actual build date of Oct.
The Vin has been decked on the block pad (yeah, I know bummer) but all date codes, casting numbers are correct on the block and heads relating to the information on the protect-o-plate. Given how accurate the casting numbers, stamped manufacturer build dates and codes are dead on to the vehicle build/manufacturing date and match the stamped build and VIN information on the Transmission I think it would be safe to say this is the original engine that came with the car but I know there will be arguments there.
Transmission:
Protect-o-plate Location H Value=P8R13
Muncie 4 speed P=Muncie Plant-8 is 1968-R13 is Oct-13
Transmission is stamped with P8r13 and the actual VIN of the car. The 350/M21 Combo was SS only.
Rear End:
Protect-o-plate Location F Value=BS0930G= 12 Bolt 331 Posi. Casting matches but I have to remove the powder coat on axel tube for other info.
Everything else is also DEAD ON from leaf springs to the rear brake line regulator valve.
I also have all the original buyer information and documentation that dates all the way back to 1967. From what I can tell the car sat since 1982 and I have most of the paperwork thru the 70’s including the recall letter for the motor mount issue by GM and sent out in 1972. The guy who owned this car kept EVERYTHING including the envelope from GM with the 6 cent Eisenhower stamp on it.
So I think I should be able to call my car a true SS and if I decide to sell it advertize it as such.. thoughts anyone?

 

A "true" SS...almost. The engine isn't the only way to distinguish a true SS car, but the VIN is needed on the block to prove the engine is the original numbers matching one. You have good documentation to show you have an SS car, which is great in itself. But, you can't prove that your engine originally came with the car. You can only "assume" the engine is the matching one from your gut feeling, but buyers don't pay top dollar based on assumptions.
Maybe...maybe, you might be able to retrieve the block stampings: http://www.chevy-camaro.com/faq/chev...storation.shtm

 

Agreed! I guess I was just looking to say it's a true SS. I know I cannot claim the original numbers matching engine without those VIN numbers, maybe I can call the engine date correct? I do think I should be able to claim a true SS though right?

 

Yes..