so if i am looking at a '72 chevelle that has a vin code 1D37U2B....etc. since the U means 396 does that automatically mean SS in a '72 car or were BB's available in standard 'bus? i know this must have been on here probably numerous times and i apoligize in advance.....but i would like to know. thanks.

1D37U2B

1=Chevrolet
D=Chevelle Malibu V-8
37=Body Style 2 door coupe
U=Engine code 402 ci 4bbl 240hp
2=Last digit of model year
B=Assembly plant Baltimore

Beings an SS was an option and not a seperate model as it was from 66-68 you can not tell if it's an SS unless you have the Build sheet, or original documentation. If it had a W for the engine code, that would indicate it was a 454, only available on th SS model.



Rocky

okay, so the 402 WAS available in the malibu. thanks. the engine in the car now is suffixed CTW which looks like a '70 model year, 396/350 hp engine (this is supposed to be a numbers matching car, but it doesnt look like it is) i am also looking at a '70 that is supposedly an original 454 car. if that is the case then i guess it has to have a W in the vin and that will also mean it was an SS. [assuming that applies for a '70 also?] thanks again for the info.

Different type of VIN on a '70.

this is supposed to be a numbers matching car, but it doesnt look like it is

If they are bs'ing on this, how can you trust them with anything about the car? BUYER BEWARE


1972 was the first year to have the engine coded in the VIN, they changed the VIN format. Other years will only code a 6 or 8 but no optional engines.

The 402 was available in all Chevelle models and that alone does not prove an SS.

As said, you need original paperwork to know such as the build sheet, P-O-P warranty card or other dealer generated doc's etc. There are too many SS clones for sale by people looking to make money on those wanting an SS. If a seller claims its an SS, tell him to prove it. Also ask him to give you a notorized letter stating that fact and agree to buy the car back if it proves not to be true. While this may sound unreasonable, you will often find the seller will change his tune if you demand this.

But be advised that some are very clever and can make fake build sheets, POP's etc, so before you lay out big $$ know what you are buying or risk gettting the shaft.

Also, its a sad fact that many feel all you need to do is stick in a big block engine, place the SS nameplates on the car and its an SS. They will bs till the cows come home to make a sale. Hardly a day does not go by where Ebay will have a fake SS OR Z28 Camaro on it pages. TheY swap body tags, VIN tags, piece cars back together, all to make a $$$ off of unsuspecting persons lured by the SS 396, SS 454 or Z28 claim.

BUYER BEWARE

You are correct, CTW was a 70 only code for a 402 in a Chevelle, so It can't be numbers matching. 72 402 codes are CLA, CLB, CLS, CTA, CTB, CTJ.
Go here for other info on id'ing an SS.
http://www.chevelles.com/shop/ss_ident.html