80 vette option code question

[theo law]

I've recently retrieved the build sheet for my 1980, and it's in pretty good readable condition, for the most part. All of the options I had expected are there, but there still remains on that I can't identify.

It's the only entry in the option list where the text has been destroyed by a tear in the paper. It's something along the lines of-

"VKZ" or "VK7" Then the description has been torn away, except for the last bit , which reads "....MNT" Perhaps this means "mount" Can anyone enlighten me?
I can't find even a similar type of code in the Black book, AIM or any of my other literature....

Thanks in advance....

[Jack H.]

Re: 80 vette option code question

RPO V54 was the roof panel mount--a carrier for the t-tops....

[theo law]

Re: 80 vette option code question

Yeah, close but not quite, I think. I can't host pictures at the moment, or I'd post a scan of the sheet. But it looks to be VK "something".
I had wondered about the T-top carrier option, but there are no signs of that on the car, so I'm still puzzled. Anyone have a legible 1980 build sheet that shows the same option?

[William C.]

Re: 80 vette option code question

VK1 was thr front license plate mounting package??? VK3 was the front license plate Mounting???

[theo law]

Re: 80 vette option code question

Bill, Perhaps you're onto something.... Can I ask where you got that info from? I'd like to have a look too if poss. There's no mention of those option codes in the AIM, where all the options are supposedly listed..

[William C.]

Re: 80 vette option code question

1981 Corvette Parts book in the introduction pages.

[Tom R.]

Re: 80 vette option code question

Bill & Theo:

By looking at some other build sheets of the period, as well as the 80 build sheet, its "VK3 LIC PLATE MNT." This is the license plate attaching hardware referred to in other posts.

It later years (76), BY8 License plate ornament was sent with a Corvette to one-plate states. It is black plastic with the word "CORVETTE" and are commonly seen and reproduced today.

What's interesting on your 80, is that I understand Michigan is a one-plate state...today! But I guess at one time was two-plate state. Well apparently in 1980, it was a two-state plate because your build sheet does not show BY8.

[theo law]

Re: 80 vette option code question

Tom, Bill,
Well naturally when I actually remembered I hadn't looked in my copy of the Tech info manual, VK3 was listed there, thus ending my confusion!

Interesting what you say Tom about "one-plate" states... I'm not totally sure I know what you mean? I remember reading somewhere that some states require only the rear plate to be shown.. Is that true, and if so is that what you're getting at? We have to display back and front plates in the UK.
So if I understand you right, the "corvette" ornament was supplied to go where the front plate would be, if you were allowed by the state to only use a rear plate...

One thing that still puzzles me, why are the license plate mounts set as options? Surely you need a mount of some kind whether you fit the ornament or the registration plate??

[Chris H.]

Re: 80 vette option code question

Michigan used to have to have front plates long ago. We now only require rear plates.

As far as the option. Over the years GM has gone back and forth on having the front license plate kit "forced" to all vehicles or on as needed basis to the states requiring it. For cost savings we want to only send to states that need them but for assembly plant and warranty reasons they are sent to all states(easier to throw in 100% of cars than look at manifest and make a decision). Right now I believe all GM cars have the kits in all cars.

Chris

[Eric J.]

Re: 80 vette option code question

Except Corvette.

2004 LICENSE PLATE BRACKET: License plate bracket, front (V49) $15.00

Eric

[Tom R.]

Re: 80 vette option code question

Exactly...think about it in terms of cosmetics. If the state required only one plate but GM did not "detail" the front plate area, they would be critized for being cheap and probably were. This way...they have one more chance to market a message..."Corvette!"

So then the UK would be considered a two-plate state and you Corvette would not be delivered with BY8...but you get VK3 either way.

[theo law]

Re: 80 vette option code question

Thanks for all the pointers - it's interesting to read, coming from a country where it's compulsory to have both plates. Quite frankly, to us, having an optional number plate mounting would be like having an optional steering wheel - somewhat of a necessity!

Cheers