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Z16 Documentation |
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Below are examples of Z16 authenticating documents and markings. All items are from one subject Z16: the author’s current restoration project. Certainly, these items constitute some of the most complete assembly line documentation for any Z16 in existence.
Other documentation that could help prove a Z16 include the factory Chevrolet window sticker, the dealer Order Form, dealer Invoice and Protect O Plate. All of these documents are being reproduced or faked.
Fortunately, the Z16 has so many unique mechanical components (such as the special, Z16 use only, front spindles), that faking a Z16 would be a major task and will likely be caught. |
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Body Broadcast copy
Poor condition, but all the important information is legible including: IX engine code, complete VIN and, in the upper blank portion of the body “M A L I B U S S 3 9 6” |
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Special Order Body tag
Found under the sound deadener on the passenger side (photo below), it reads (above): (138)37 (model number), #14629 (matches Fisher body number on trim tag), SS396 (no explanation needed!), Attn Stephen.
Apparently, Stephen was the guy on the Fisher Body line that was responsible for the Z16 conversion.
The opposite side of the tag reads “Special Body Order” and has blanks for all of the above information. It was obviously easier for the information to be written on the back.
This is the only tag of this type known to exist by the author. |
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www.Z16Chevelle.com |
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www.Z16Chevelle.com |
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www.Z16Chevelle.com |
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Body Broadcast Copy in fender!!! |
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Shown above is the cowl (firewall) partially stripped of paint. Discernable in dark (rust colored in photo) marker is “13837” (Malibu SS), “2LN” (trim code for 4 speed and N= unknown), “FM-5Y” (F=Comfort and Convenience package, M=396, Y=Seat Belts).
These codes were written in marker on the bare steel cowl before being dip primed. They were necessary at the very earliest stages of body building since these codes called out needed modifications to the body. The 4 speed required that the transmission tunnel be flame cut and have the special “hump” welded in. The seat belts required holes drilled and anchors welded on to the rear floor pan.
Of interest is that the model (13837) is written in white marker on the black primed cowl. This would have been after, of course, the other writing had been covered up with the primer.
None of the markings shown above were visible after final cowl blackout paint was applied. There was, however, “C08” written on the cowl over the heater box in gray paint marker after the blackout was applied. Most Z16s received what appears to be an inspector’s initials in this location. |
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Here’s a curiosity. What was assumed as the hanging location of the Special Body Order tag (center of the windshield header) may or may not be. This wire was never removed - just tucked up as the headliner was installed. The tag that was found under the carpet (that conclusively matches the body number) has both hole grommets intact and is not “torn” where it would have been pulled off the wire shown to the left.
Perhaps there was a second tag.
UPDATE: A second wire was found with no grommet!! |
