<VV> Re: Matching Engine Numbers

[airvair]

I think there's a difference between wanting to match numbers to make
sure that the parts will function like the factory intended (like the
proper cam in the right engine) VS wanting to have ALL the pieces
assembled on the same day (like matching glass codes.) It's the latter
that is horribly expensive and serves no purpose other than being anal. 

It's like a certain Corvette friend that recently wanted to buy specific
wiper blade frames from me. (Corvair and Corvette use the same size
part.) Seems that in the '60's Trico changed designs almost yearly and
had stampings saying "made in USA" on some, not on others. Since it was
on either and/or both ends, and the frame is an assembly, one could go
through a stack of them looking for just the right style, marking, etc.
Corvette people are incredibly anal about such things.

Hopefully us Corvair people, even factory stock concours enthusiasts,
won't deteriorate to that extent. I may want the parts on my car to LOOK
right, but I think insisting on specific date codes, stampings, etc.
would take all the fun out of the hobby. There is a line, admittedly a
bit fuzzy, but one should only go as far as one wants, without
inflicting stringent standards on the rest of the hobby. Dste codes,
stampings, etc. are over that line, and should only be for one own's
amusement.

-Mark

NOSVAIR@aol.com wrote:
> 
> Judging from the number of questions asked weekly on this list I'd say you
> were deluding yourself if you thought people in the Corvair rhelm didn't care if
> numbers matched.  There are too many variables out there not to care.  Who
> wants a turbo bolted to a 80hp engine or  your Corsa with a 140 PG engine?  The
> variables are unending!  It's serious business no matter whether you're buying
> a project or a dead stock low mileage car.
> 
> Bruce Webster
> '60 500 Sedan
> '61 700 Coupe
> '64 900 Coupe