We at Rocket Restorations keep our own Mopar registry. Galen isn’t the only one who keeps track of these cars. When you start to look at the numbers of these cars, whether it is the VIN number or the fender tag codes or other interesting things, you can find out a lot of information about them you wouldn’t normally see. Patterns start to emerge and you can learn a lot. This week we are going to break down a 1965 Dodge Coronet that just came through our shop. Continue reading after the jump!
This car was a local car and when we saw it we immediately noticed that the VIN number on the car was W455100011 which means it was the eleventh car off the assembly line. Our first question was–is this car special? Was it a pilot car? Public relations? Show car? Press car? Here is a breakdown of the VIN number:
W – Coronet V8
4 – Coronet 500
5 – Year – 1965
5 – Plant – LA Built
100011 – Sequence Number, 11th car off the assembly line
Here is a decode of the fender tag:
First line –
SO – 831 – SPD – Scheduled Production Date of August 31st 1964 (this was 1st day of production at the LA Plant)
NUMBER – Vehicle Order Number – 08147
BDY – Body Number – W42 – Coronet 500 2 Door
TRM – Trim Code – P4Y – Premium Gold Bucket Seat Interior
PNT – Paint Color Code – WW1 – White paint single tone
Second line –
AB – 50 – Engine Code – 361-2
D – 5 – Transmission – 727 Torqueflite
E – 5 – Heater front with defroster
Q – 1 – Radio – AM Music Master
V – 3 – Back Up Lights
Z – 2 – Bucket Seats
Third line –
1 – 2 – Mirror Outside Left Remote
3 – 9 – 3 Speed Variable Wipers
We will go into more in depth analysis of what we found in the car next week and find out if this car was something special.
Yes, this car is very special to me. I owned it for twenty five years. Despite this, was really unaware of vin codes. As far as breaking one down. Tom hergert was very aware though. I was changing my mind in selling THIS Car: vin #455100011,license plate 116lsj, when Tom hergert, made me several promises, in order to strike a deal. He NEVER once informed me on the vin’s meaning. He promised that I would be part of the restoration process, meaning in his words: “we’re a restoration shop! Of course we are going to restore it! And yes, you can come in whenever you want during that process. And be the first to see complete!” Also, he mentioned putting a different engine in. I said absolutely not!! I couldn’t complete the transaction knowing that. For me, it is MOST IMPORTANT, to a Car’s integrity to be left COMPLETELY STOCK. So the first thing Tom hergert does,is put MY BOOGIE BOY, up for sale. Same day. And he has avoided my calls, he basically deceived, me, straight up Lied to have an opportunity to make money off my unfortunate situation, and to be able to write some ‘interesting’ blogs, and have bragging rights. So who protects someone in my position? ? There are codes of ethics, as well of honor, and YES laws, in which protect dealers. So whom will help me? And should I mention… this Car is still in My Name. So where is it?? Is it legal for a dealer to sell a Car without title in hand?? For the only Title that I’m aware of on this Car is in My name, and My possession. Also, doesn’t a person have to buy a vehicle under a business name, in order to sell it under That business name?? Anyone needing, or wanting to help me clear this up, please contact me Myboogieb@yahoo.com. THANK YOU, SINCERELY ..Carolyn Johnson.
What did You learn about this car?
its looks has a good body and think its new
I have a 65 Coronet 500 convert, can you tell me what these numbers mean on my radiator support 514 300 89 36