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Re: serial number confusion

To: Jim <jdeatsc1@rochester.rr.com>
Subject: Re: serial number confusion
From: Joe Curry <spitlist@gte.net>
Date: Mon, 02 Aug 1999 16:27:48 -0700
Cc: Triumphs List <triumphs@autox.team.net>
References: <37A611A7.6ED98989@rochester.rr.com>
Jim,
Back in the 60's, Triumph used the actual build date to mark the model
year, based on the actual calendar instead of beginning the model year
in the fall as was done by US manufacturers.

This led to much confusion as to the actual year of the car.  Since
according to the BMIHT, the first car produced in 1966 was FC 71790,
your car would have to be a 1965.  What likely happened is the Dealer
changed the model year so it would not appear that he was selling a Used
car.  Not much changed in the years that a particular model was built,
so it was easy for them to get away with that.

There is also the problem with shipping time eating away at the model
year, so left over inventory from one year was commonly first registered
as the next year's model.

By the way, there were a few Mk2's manufactured in January of 67, prior
to the introduction of the Mk3.  

What type door handles does your car have?  THere were two styles used
on the Mk2.  The early ones used the twist handle like the Mk1 and the
later ones were the push button like the Mk3's use.

I hope this somewhat explains the situation.

Regards,
Joe Curry

Jim wrote:
> 
> FC68436L is the number.  PO says 1967, I find that it's a 1966
> (apparently constructed through January 1967) and yet the Spitfire
> Registry says it's a 1965.
> 
> Imagine my confusion.
> 
> Any thoughts?
> 
> Jim

-- 
"If you can't excel with talent, triumph with effort."
 -- Dave Weinbaum in National Enquirer

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