<VV> Parts mixing

[kenpepke at juno.com]

Ah, not really … At the end of model production, also known as 'change over,' all the [in this example]1963 leftover parts that were not 'carry over' [parts used without change between model years] would be removed from the assembly area and forwarded to SPO [Service Parts Organization]  The assembly area would then be stocked with1964 parts leaving no chance for such 'mistakes.'

Contrary to the beliefs of computer oriented persons, the paper system used in the BC days was highly sophisticated and sucessfully co-ordinated and produced millions and millions of automobiles.  Production managers were well aware of 'what was going on' at all times.  While there was, as is today, some evidence of 'warm bodies' sabotaging vehicles … perhaps just for giggles … it was not, and is not, at all common.

As far as the interior 'story' / 'urban legend' … the interiors are not all installed at the same time / place on the assembly line so for a complete cross match to happen it would it would have to be co-ordinated alone the assembly line.  I personally ordered a non-stock color interior in my 1976 El Camino and it came through exactly as ordered.  So while it can be done, it must be well planned and could not happen by accident.


Ken P
Wyandotte, MI
65 Monza 110hp 4 speed 2 door
Worry looks around; Sorry looks back, Faith looks up.

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On Mar 12, 2013, at 9:55 AM, ricebugg at comcast.net wrote:

> All:  And a '64 could have '63 parts.  Depends on when new parts arrived and old parts ran out.  Who know what was going on then.  There's a fair chance even the warm bodies doing their jobs either didn't know, or maybe did it on purpose just for giggles. 
> 
> Remember, this was all done with paper.  No computers to manage flow and keep inventory on the ass'y line in sequence.  No bar codes to check part numbers
> 
> I remember hearing a story back in the '80's of either a F'bird or a Camaro being built with the other cars interior installed.  The next stack of parts were there and stuffed into the next car on the line.  There was no way to stop the line to rearrange the the inventory.  It is entirely possible the guys on the line didn't even notice.  The car was in the hands of the new owner several weeks before they noticed as I remember the story.  Dealership swapped out the parts.  If it had been me, I would have kept it as delivered.  How unique would that car be today!?  
> 
> We are accustomed to neat and orderly.  Real life just isn't that way.  Documenting the aberrations is what makes history so much fun. 
> 
> Historically Yours,
> 					James Rice
>