Curiosity or "Correct"? 1963 Hood Date Stamp, pics

[Bob M.]

I was stripping the underside of a '63 hood and came across what appears to be a date stamp on the skin. The impression in the 'glass is light and somewhat obscured by the strands of fiberglass. The stamp is located near the front of the rear "triangle" defined by the reinforcing frame. If you look closely, you can see it in the third photo. It is the lighter strip just to the right of the center crease and about 3-4" below the center rib.

I read the date as "FEB 21 1963". The "FEB 21" is clear to me, and if I squint and use my imagination, I can see the "196" of 1963. The "3" is very distinct. The date would be consistent with the fact that the hood has four alignment blocks.

Is this another date necessary for a car to be absolutely correct or is it dismissed as trivial? My cursory research has turned up nothing. A little sanding or a heavier coat of paint could easily obscure the date and make it a moot point.

This hood may be surplus. Could anyone use it? I hope that's not an inappropriate question; I'm not actually offering it, just trying to get some parts and pieces in order and lacking the knowledge/experience to make intelligent decisions...

Bob

[John H.]

Re: Curiosity or "Correct"? 1963 Hood Date Stamp, pics

Is this another date necessary for a car to be absolutely correct or is it dismissed as trivial?

Bob -

It certainly confirms the production date of the raw hood, but it was covered by the hood blackout paint and thus is not judged.

[Rick S.]

Re: Curiosity or "Correct"? 1963 Hood Date Stamp, pics

Bob,
I can't add anything to authenticate the existence of a date code BUT I am really impressed with your sharp eyes. I agree, it does look like Feb 21,1963. Your photography skills are also commended.

Rick

[Richard M.]

Re: Curiosity or "Correct"? 1963 Hood Date Stamp, pics

Also found my early 62s' hood was dated under the front lip. "AUG 21 61". Also found one on the hard-top.
Rich

[Eric V.]

Re: Curiosity or "Correct"? 1963 Hood Date Stamp, pics

Bob, I sent you a P.M.

E. Vrem

[Jimmy B.]

Re: Curiosity or "Correct"? 1963 Hood Date Stamp, pics

Bob,

My ex 63 f.i. # 11122 had ink stamps like that on the rear panels, I remember the exhaust panel and I think 1 of the rear fenders. Ink was was a dark color maybe dark purple if memory serves me correctly. I got some pictures somewhere if someone is intereted. Send me that buzzer dash, I'll give you your $300.00 back!

Jim Blakely