Early 63 Corvette Spare Tire Bolt BRACKET

[David L.]

Does anyone know when the change on the assembly line took place when the early 63 Corvette spare tire bolt bracket (shown in the pictures on the left) was replaced with the 3841462 bracket (shown in the pictures on the right)? The page in the 1963 assembly manual was redrawn Jan. 15, 1963. The early 63 bracket has a logo that looks like a baseball. Has anyone seen this logo on other parts?

[Joe R.]

Re: Early 63 Corvette Spare Tire Bolt BRACKET

David,

I have had several 63's from the 8000SN to 19,000SN and all had brackets like the one on the left. Well, almost like the one on the left. The welding jobs on mine were of poorer quality than the one in your pic. Also, the pocket was smaller as the ends were closer to the nut (threaded barrel) on the threaded shaft. One end was welded all the way around and the other was only tack welded on the ends and middle. Also open at the lowest point.

Not sure but I don't think the rear bracket changed in 63. Certainly the front bolts changed at least twice. Maybe somebody else has more information on this bracket.

Just because there was a number change doesn't mean the part changed completely. It could have been a change in the way they were assembled or maybe even welded.

No logo found on any bracket in my possession.

JR

[Jack Y.]

Re: Early 63 Corvette Spare Tire Bolt BRACKET

If it will help, early Feb (83xx) has the earlier style but I don't see the logo.

[Tom H.]

Re: Early 63 Corvette Spare Tire Bolt BRACKET

My Jan 24th coupe has the early version shown on the left. Logo is no longer visible.

[David L.]

Re: Early 63 Corvette Spare Tire Bolt BRACKET

I assume the 1st design brackets were still installed in vehicles until the supply on the assembly line was used up.