[72 GMC Sprint]

As I understand it a 1972 GMC Sprint V-8 Custom with a small block could be an SP. I have since begun the search for a build sheet. Even though this car is 1 of 689 based on the VIN alone it could be one of the 258 estimated SP’s in 350-4 barrel form, no? Sorry it’s not original paint or wheels and no SP badge on the interior just GMC on the wheel, in case you are wondering. Anyway, I would like others to confirm my newly learned VIN and cowl tag decoding skills.

VIN: 5D80J2L5000440
Cowl Tag: ST 72-53680 L 00355; TR 704 A51 75 B; IC 5 369033 17070

1972 GMC Sprint, V-8 Custom, 350-4bbl, bucket seats, cranberry red, black vinyl roof, built in Los Angles as the 440th unit.

Is this really all I can tell without a build sheet? Additional options on the car are: console, round ralley/ss type gages, a/c, cruise, power locks, brakes, steering, turbo 350 trans, 12 bolt rear, air shocks, map light in the rear view. If anyone has a GMC Sprint SP with a small block or at least similar VIN Digits (5000440 +/- ) please send me an e-mail. Thanks.

Follow this link for a picture…please ignore the 1955 Pontiac parts.
http://www.putfile.com/dronk69

 

[dcarr]

Your decode is correct. I would add that the "1C" (note "1C" not "IC") means that is was assembled during the third week of January (1972).

Does it have a round speedometer or the wide rectangular speedometer ?

Does it have air conditioning ?

Is there a "GMC" on the dash above the heater controls ?

Is there a small oval "Fasten Seat Belts" light in the dash near the lighter ?

 

[72 GMC Sprint]

Well-Well Mr. Dan Carr…Hello and thanks for the reply along with the correction on the date code.

Yes-Yes options do include the round speed/tach/clock etc. and it does have ac with vents above the controls so there is no GMC cover. I had to take a second look for the seat belt light. I never really noticed it...bulb must be burned out but it’ there alright. Is this part of a deluxe lighting or seat belt option or something? Forgive me for being new to the option game on this vehicle but it does have a separate shoulder belt. Passengers are commonly confused by the lap belt alone. Something new to me was a pair of pockets attached to each side of console. I assumed this was a fancy seat belt organizer not a combination ipod and cell phone holder (only half kidding here).

Anyway, I hope to pull the gas tank down and peek behind the door panels this weekend. No build sheet under the seats or on the top the glove box.


Say could you identify any magazine back issues with detailed articles on our unknown camino sisters? I would like to display them on the dash during my local show-n-shines in the coming year. Can’t tell yeah how many times people ask me why I put GMC emblems on my Chevrolet. Maybe you can relate? The sprint scripts are pretty faded and/or completely missing so I guess take partial responsibility. Then of course other folks get Sprint confused with Chevy’s pizza delivery version. UUGH! Maybe go with the GMC camino story line to save some time. Ok moving on…

Any thoughts on developing an on-line registry here specifically for the under appreciated Sprints?

Thanks again for the reply Dan.

Regards,
Darin

 

[dcarr]

Darin,

The "Fasten Seat Belts" warning light was added to the Chevelle/Camino/Sprint dashes shortly after the start of the 1972 model year. As you know, a lot of dash swaps are done on clones to make them look authentic. The 1972-only seat belt light is something to look for to check the authenticity of the dash. I've seen a couple supposed 1970 LS6 Chevelles with the seat belt light (not a good sign !). And I've seen some late-production 1972 "SS-454" Chevelles without the light (not a good sign either !).

My '71 Sprint has the console pockets. I think that was part of a deluxe seat belt option (but the warning light was federally-mandated in all cars starting in 1972).

My '71 Sprint has been in a couple magazines and on "My Classic Car" TV show with Dennis Gage. I don't remember which magazine issues, but I'll see if I can dig them up later today.

Trim Parts make nices reproductions of the "GMC/Sprint" fender/tailgate emblems.

I thought about a registry, but it is difficult in many cases to determine whether the information provided by owners is correct.

 

[Chris R]

My '71 Sprint has been in a couple magazines and on "My Classic Car" TV show with Dennis Gage.

I remember that episode like it was yesterday. But I cant remember what you said the production totals were on the SP454. Im not even sure if it was stated in the graphic that comes up on the screen during the segment. Werent there actually very very few of yours made Dan?

Also, didnt you have a Buick Skylark on that show too? Forgive me if im wrong about that.

 

[dcarr]

Here are the detailed '71-'72 GMC Sprint production totals:
http://www.chevelles.com/sprint/total.html

On a different eposide of My Classic Car, they featured my 1968 Buick GS-Colorado.

 

[Denveroger]

How were able to decode your 72 Sprint? I'm trying to decode on now. I know I have a 72 Custom originally a 402 BB auto buckets and console.

 

[BillsCamino]

FYI...this thread was started almost 10 years ago!!!
Suggest starting a new one...