Corvette 1963 Rear Spindle Flange Locking Tabs?

[Richard G.]

I was under the impression that the 63 Corvette didn't have locking tabs on the axle flange bolts.

I came across a picture of some strange looking locks and they claim they are for a 63.
I found no evidence of any bolt locks used on my Dec 1962 SWC.
Anyone have any additional information on these? Were they used on late cars or?

[Edward J.]

Re: Corvette 1963 Rear Spindle Flange Locking Tabs?

Rich, your early car should have lock washers, the original lock washers were a bit thicker than the average ones , I believe the French lock can in around May 63.

[Richard G.]

Re: Corvette 1963 Rear Spindle Flange Locking Tabs?

Thanks for the clarification.
I thought the only tabs were like the later cars, like these;


However after looking closer I see where both early and late type French Locks are reproduced.



Likely old hat to many.

So;
Early 63 no locks
Late 63 to 64, locks but not the same as later years.
65 up what I will call the usual style.
Go it.. Or at least I now know what I didn't know....
Thanks a bunch.
Rick

[Joe L.]

Re: Corvette 1963 Rear Spindle Flange Locking Tabs?

Thanks for the clarification.
I thought the only tabs were like the later cars, like these;


However after looking closer I see where both early and late type French Locks are reproduced.



Likely old hat to many.

So;
Early 63 no locks
Late 63 to 64, locks but not the same as later years.
65 up what I will call the usual style.
Go it.. Or at least I now know what I didn't know....
Thanks a bunch.
Rick

Rick------

The L1963-64 locks were GM #3843385. These were discontinued from SERVICE in January, 1965 and replaced by the GM #3860543 which were used in PRODUCTION for 1965-79.

[Joe L.]

Re: Corvette 1963 Rear Spindle Flange Locking Tabs?

All-----


By the way, it's too bad that Locktite had not been invented a long time ago. If it had, the need for these crazy things could have been eliminated. For those not concerned today about strict originality, Locktite will eliminate the need for the french locks.

[Gary R.]

Re: Corvette 1963 Rear Spindle Flange Locking Tabs?

All-----


By the way, it's too bad that Locktite had not been invented a long time ago. If it had, the need for these crazy things could have been eliminated. For those not concerned today about strict originality, Locktite will eliminate the need for the french locks.

Very true Joe. When I setup the HD 31 spline outer axles I use gr8 lockwashers with a drop of Loctite #271 for the flange to axle flange bolts.