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RDP

Posted 2022-01-03 12:05 PM (#618127 - in reply to #618120)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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frwl - 2022-01-03 3:44 PM

BTW: You told that your car has Safety Group No. 1

I think so because my car has all stuff of this group. This is the only reason. I have no other evidence to support my guess.

.

Below, the cowl tag from Igor that I talked about in the previous post.

(57dodge.jpg)

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57dodge.jpg (47KB - 247 downloads)

RDP

Posted 2022-01-03 12:20 PM (#618128 - in reply to #618119)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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22mafeja - 2022-01-03 6:49 AM

Interesting.
One thing I haven`t observed until now is that at least LA built cars seem all to have had a strip of masking tape on the body plate during painting.
This of course is because the readability of the plate is low when the plate is freshly painted.

Yes, each plate has a strip of masking tape,
but it might as well have been something stuck to it, e.g. construction sheet.

56D500boy

Posted 2022-01-03 12:42 PM (#618129 - in reply to #618119)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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22mafeja - 2022-01-02 9:49 PM Interesting. One thing I haven`t observed until now is that at least LA built cars seem all to have had a strip of masking tape on the body plate during painting. This of course is because the readability of the plate is low when the plate is freshly painted.

Ralf: The tape thing was observed years ago and noted by Neil Vedder (D500Neil). He suggested that the tape was used to hold the build sheet to the cowl as it went down the line. (I don't think that he suggestion was ever confirmed by anyone but it sounds reasonable). Neil is no longer with us (RIP) and I don't think that he shared any documentation so.....

Every LA cowl tag, including my cars, has that sign that there was some tape there (for whatever reason):

Mine:

Some others:

22mafeja

Posted 2022-01-05 1:35 AM (#618152 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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Well that is possible. But I don`t think so because the tape strip is always on the center row where the paint and trim etc info is. If the plate was used just to put the build sheet
on, the strip would have been more randomly placed. And it clearly has been on during final paint so in that case the build sheet would also have been paint.

Edited by 22mafeja 2022-01-05 1:37 AM

RDP

Posted 2022-01-08 2:31 PM (#618236 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

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another LA built 1956 Dodge

(d56 (1).JPG)

(d56 (2).JPG)

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d56 (2).JPG (42KB - 245 downloads)

56D500boy

Posted 2022-01-08 3:12 PM (#618239 - in reply to #618236)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

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.
So in terms of the LA specific codes we see SG 1 (which I think is the Solex Glass), M1-5, M2-4, m8-3 and M9-8

Do you know the meaning of those M codes?

In terms of the other codes

01 12 = January 12, 1956 Scheduled build date,
Model D63-1 = Coronet
BT = Body Type 816 = V8, 2dr hardtop
PT = Paint = 169 = Garnet metallic upper and Chinese Rose Lower
TR = Trim = 531 = Patterned Jacquard Weave Fabric with Cordagrain Seat Back and Deluxe Door Trim – Black and White

So what about the M codes?

frwl

Posted 2022-01-08 3:34 PM (#618244 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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Oh, the two door Coronet Lancer with PF and delivered by railroad!
Looks like no power steering, but it has power brakes (M1 = 5);
The Basic Group is present (SG = 1);
The M2 = 4 is something, that not included in other accessory groups (Convenience and Appearance)…
Maybe it is a rain shields 364? Or windshield washer 394 – it is a separate option…
Nope! Dave’s car has windshield washer but his cowl tag column M2 is empty…

RDP

Posted 2022-01-16 7:02 AM (#618488 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

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frwl - 2022-01-16 9:34 AM

.
Nathan bought same ’56 Belvedere 2 Door Hardtop in 2020, and posted the picture of cowl tag, with some my guessing and his confirmations. Here the link:

http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=74478&...

I’ll try to help you to decode M-codes with comparison of Nathan’s cowl tag codes and hope your feedback about it.
So, SG1
As noticed Dave above, it is Solex Tinted Glass (order code 361) that you confirmed; OR it is might be an Special Group (Accessory Group #1) that included: Rain Shield, Cigar Lighter, Wheel Covers, Directional Signals and Glove Box Lock. Do you have any option of these?

M3 = 4
I guess that is a Roof Rail Drip Molding and Windshield Upper Molding (order code 424) that present on Nathan’s car also – see picture below. Fury has Drip Molding as standard, while Windshield Molding was optional on both. Do you have these items on your car?

M5 = 5
Initially I guess it is Deluxe Steering Wheel (5 = code 445 means Black, 6 = 446 means White). Nathan’s car has Black Deluxe Steering Wheel, but column M5 is empty. It also might be an Accessory Group #5 that consists Accessory Groups #1 and #3 both. Besides AG#1 items listed above, the group #3 includes Back Up Lights, Windshield Washers and Variable Speed Windshield Wiper; Do you have these? BUT you told your cars has Power Brakes (code 365), so I guess M5 code deciphering it. Nathan’s car has not power brakes and M5 is empty.

M6 = 1
I guessed and Nathan confirmed the Electric Clock in his car – see picture below. Do you have a clock on the dash?

M8 = 2
It is very interesting and most discussed item! We (me, Dave and Robert) have very big discussion about it; all 100% cowl tags we have seen have M8 = 3 codes with no alternative. Only one Robert posted ’56 Dodge tag with M8 = 2 with no comments about car which has it. Your tag is a second. Since beginning of our discussion I have assumed this is Transmission. You told your car has Manual Transmission with Overdrive, so I guess M8 = 2 (code 352) mean it definitely. Nathan’s car equipped with Powerflite Automatic Transmission and his M8 = 3 (code 353). DAVE, ROBERT WHAT DO YOU THINK?

M9 = 3
A Delivery Route from factory to dealer. I see 1, 2, 3, 4, and 8 in this box. The 8 is delivered by Rail. No idea what route is «3».

Hope this will help somehow, and I will wait for your feedback to my questions.

I will bring some of the discussion over here so as not to clutter up the GaryS thread. http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=76902&...

(SG) I think the SG is not an accessory group, only 4 of the 30 cars are not stamped there.

(M9) I also saw route 5. It was on the invoice, not on the body tag. 8 is the highest number I've ever seen. Presumably there are numbers 6 and 7 as well, but I have never seen them.

(M5) not sure if M5 = 1 is a clock. Each Belv in the table has M1 = 5 (only one clock is confirmed), and this is paired with SG = 1 (maybe it has nothing to do with)

(M8) There are more interesting cases at M8:
- all Chryslers have M8=4, but one M8=8
- all De Sotos have M8=4, but one M8=3
- all Dodges have M8=3, but one M8=2
and now all Plymouths have M8=3, but one M8=2
M8 is stamped for everyone. About those exceptional Desoto and Dodge I don't have any info except data tag,
but my Windsor has the same gearbox as the one with the M8 = 4.
Your theory seems to explain well Garys Plymouth, but I also see shortcomings.

Edited by RDP 2022-01-16 9:09 AM

frwl

Posted 2022-01-17 6:17 AM (#618534 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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Another attempt to understand the codes of Chrysler 1956. Not suitable for Plymouth, Dodge and DeSoto.

The codes of Robert's car must contain codes ending in 1 and 5 - power steering and brakes - options on Windsor. From this it is concluded that these may be nearby codes 381 and 385. The power steering is also installed on Dieter's car (an option on the New Yorker, while the power brakes are standard), but there is no code 381, but at the same time both Robert and Dieter have code 361, originally adopted as solex tinted glass. Therefore, it can be assumed that the power steering has the code 361, and the power brakes have the code 385. This theory is also facilitated by the comparison of Chrysler codes with Plymouth codes: 361 and 385 vs. 351 and 365, respectively, only shifted by tens. It remains to accept that tinted glasses are code 381 - because they should end with 1. Dieter's New Yorker is also equipped with tinted glass, but he does not have such a code. However, there is a code 455, presumably also affixed to the cowl tag: SG = 5, and probably designating an accessory group #5, which includes solex tinted glass, a left outside mirror and a vanity mirror, which can be seen in the photo. In addition to the 455 code, Dieter also has a 453 code, also presumably an accessory group #3. This includes white sidewalls tires, a rear license plate frame, a plastic steering wheel and a prismatic mirror. The M3 = 5 code present on the plate probably indicates one of the last two accessories, which is unlikely, but the reliable code of the prismatic mirror is unknown (Plymouth deluxe steering wheel has code 455). From this it can be assumed that the group of accessories 5 is affixed both on the tag and in the assembly sheet, the group of accessories 3 is only in the sheet, but some accessory from it occupies the M3 column (in this case, the steering wheel or mirror).

There was an idea that SG = 1 is just tinted windows, and SG = 5 are the same, but included in the accessories group (Windsor has "4" and New Yorker has "5"), but there is one car with tinted windows and an empty SG column. So SG is a Special (Accessory) Group, not Solex Glass. Thus, there can be only 1, 4 or 5. Unfortunately, the code "3" is not put down, and the remaining Power groups 6 and 7 will occupy either "their" separate columns, or not put down at all. By the way, power steering and brakes (and, for example, DeSoto power seat) as we can see, they are not installed, and only power windows remain, but they are located in the EW column.

The automatic transmission should end in 3, and it probably would have been 353 if the code 354 had not been in Dieter's car. According to the Detroit codes, I assume that this is a radio: 3 - Music Master with rear speakers at Robert, and 4 – without them at Dieter, and the code 344 is probably a heater. Now there is no idea how the transmission is encoded (and whether it is encoded at all).

There is also no clear understanding of the M8 cowl tag codes (3, 4, and 8) and the corresponding ones on the built sheet 423, 424 and 428. Theoretically, these should be the codes of the exterior chrome trim. Chrysler New Yorker does not use any additional exterior trim – only standard, to the maximum. Windsor has additional chrome included in the Custom Accessory Group (probably #2, while New Yorker has this Group #3). The exception may be the side bumper guards. For now we have the following: M8 = 8 - standard Windsor with single side molding and a regular frame for the windshield and rear window; M8 = 4 - Windsor with dual moldings with an upper contour molding over the fins, separating the two tone paint schemes. This also includes windshield upper molding and which is not confirmed, chrome roof rail drip moldings. According to the New Yorker, we have M8 = 3 and M8 = 4, there is no difference; in both cases this is the maximum finish with contour molding. The only hook in the paint code: a car with M8 = 3 has a paint code 305 - this is a New Yorker St. Regis with three-tone paint, and a car with M8 = 4 has a code 407 - New Yorker Newport with two-tone paint. Also, the M8 = 4 has a Windsor Spring Special sedan with a 261 color (also Special Two Tones, with contour molding).

Code M5 = 1 I would like to assume it denoting Undercoating – however, in comparison with Plymouth it has the code 458. Present only on Windsor; the New Yorker has this option as standard. The code 473 can denote tires with white sidewalls (present on both Robert's car and an “Alcoholic” car, and by the way, Dieter does not; probably because they are part of the accessory group #3). M9 is the delivery route, it coincides with the graph and is visible twice on different cars. M9 = 8 is a railway delivery; symbols 2 and 3 also come across, but without explanation.

From top to bottom on the picture below:

Robert’s Car codes
Dieter’s Car codes
Alcoholic Car codes

(1.jpg)

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frwl

Posted 2022-01-17 8:19 AM (#618535 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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Resume:

344 = Heater
353 = Radio Music Master and Rear Seat Speaker
354 = Radio Music Master
361 = Power Steering
381 = Solex Tinted Glass
385 = Power Brakes
387 =
423 = Exterior Trim Package
424 = Exterior Trim Package
428 = Exterior Trim Package
451 = Accessory Group No. 1
453 = Accessory Group No. 3
455 = Accessory Group No. 5
469 =
473 = White Side Wall Tires

RDP

Posted 2022-01-17 3:05 PM (#618553 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

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Wow! You've done a great job. But I would like to take a broader look at it. We agree that column M9 is the delivery code. This is true for all brands. I think the same principle will work for the other columns. Like the M5 column for 1957-59 - this is always undercoating.

You said: "M8 = 8 - standard Windsor with single side molding."
But it's standard, why stamp it? If an option is not selected, it means you have ordered a basic set, right? Again, I don't see any reason to stamp it on the tag.
The M8 column is very interesting, because as the only one it is always stamped. I wonder, maybe is not a equipment code just like M9?

If the SG is an accessory column, it means all Dodge buyers have selected accessory group 1. I have doubts here. Both Chrysler, Dodge and Plymouth use SG=1. Chrysler use SG=5 too. Only De Soto is different - uses SG=5 just like Chrysler, but SG=4 rather than SG=1. I think this column will work for all brands as well, just like the EW column. But maybe I'm wrong.
I would like to see the IBM card and tag for the another New Yorker.

What means 357 and 358 codes for 56 Dodge?

.

frwl

Posted 2022-01-17 4:08 PM (#618554 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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I found this old thread on the forum where one owner has supposed next codes for 1956 Dodge:

http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=23917&...

301 = Solex Tinted Glass
332 = Overdrive Transmission
335 = Heater and Defroster
338 = Music Master Radio
375 = Backup Lights
387 = Wheel Covers not deluxe
414 = Variable Speed Windshield Wipers
441 = Electric Clock
472 = Undercoating
487 = Misc Extra Equipment (?)
494 = Customer Pickup
603 = New Car Service Drive Away
629 = Dealer Fund
017 = Special Order

and

323 = transmission
368 = Dual Exhaust (all, except Wagons)
369 = Dual Exhaust (but Wagons only, all others should be 368)
630 = Special Carburetor (!)

and next quote:

345 Added and 344 Deleted is a running switch to Manual steering (may have initially tried to get power steering and this is not available with the Dual Four Barrel Carburetor Group), unknown codes 314 and 323 (rear axle related), unknown code 359, 369 (probably Dual Four Barrel Carburetor Group), unknown codes 630, 641, 657 (related to special order).

56D500boy

Posted 2022-01-17 5:02 PM (#618555 - in reply to #618554)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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frwl - 2022-01-17 1:08 PM .
I found this old thread on the forum where one owner has supposed next codes for 1956 Dodge:

Igor: That is Tim Dupont and his 1956 Detroit-built Dodge D500-1 (with the factory 2 x 4bbls).

I did a complete break down of his IBM card in that thread. But that doesn't matter much because this thread is about LA cowl data tags and Tim's
car was built in Detroit so the codes might be different and do not translate to M1 to M9 codes.

frwl

Posted 2022-03-01 2:49 PM (#619912 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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.
Link to the thread:

http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=77093&...

Link to the seller’s pictures:

https://www.streetsideclassics.com/vehicles/3603-cha/1959-desoto-fir...

1959 DeSoto Firesweep Sportsman 2 Door Hardtop
Serial Number M414100541: 1959 (M) DeSoto (4) Firesweep (1) Los Angeles Built (4) 541th Firesweep Built (100541)

SO 0123 = Scheduled on January 23, 1959
NO 4008 = 8th Car Built That Day
MODEL MS1L = 1959 (M) DeSoto (S) Firesweep (1) Low Price Class (L)
BT 412 = DeSoto (4) Firesweep (1) 2 Door Hardtop Sportsman (2)
PT XXX = Paint Pearl White – Single Tone
TR 346 = Red Vinyl and Gray Cloth

M1 = 4 = 314 = Aluminum Sweep Insert
M2 = 5 = 315 = Sill and Lower Deck (Rear Bumper Reveal) Moldings
M3 = 2 = 422 = Roof Molding Package No. 2 – for Sportsman Hardtops (No. 1 = 421 – for Sedans and Station Wagons)

(1.JPG)

(2.JPG)

(3.JPG)

(4.JPG)

(5.JPG)

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Jdv

Posted 2022-04-22 4:23 PM (#621019 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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Posts: 17

Here is my LA built car.

(Compress_20220422_132808_8300.jpg)

(Compress_20220422_132808_8535.jpg)

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frwl

Posted 2022-04-23 12:32 PM (#621038 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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Thanks for sharing, Joel!

M3 = 9 = Order Code 419 = Fin End Chrome Inserts
M4 = 9 = Order Code 429 = Rear Quarter Ornaments (Louvers)
M5 = 1 = Order Code 501 = Undercoating and Underhood Pad

SCHED 0430 = Scheduled on April 30, 1959 (Oh, she is going to have a birthday soon…)
NO 5074 = 74th Car built that Day
MODEL MD3H = 1959 (M), Dodge (D), V8 361CID Engine (3), Custom Royal Series – High Price Class (H)
BT 352 = Body Type 352 = Dodge (3), Custom Royal (5), Lancer 2 Door Hardtop (2)
PT XB4 = Paint Deluxe Two Tone = Pearl (White) – Roof, Lower and Fins Colors; Blue Diamond – Upper (Saddle) Color
TR 275 = Blue Vinyl and Blue Nassau Fabric; No Swivel Seats

VEHICLE NO. M354*101681, where:
M = 1959 Model Year
3 = Dodge Division
5 = Custom Royal Series Model
4 = Los Angeles, California Assembly Plant
101681 = Consecutive Unit Number, starting 100001 and up…

Could you post the pictures of your car, please?
Have you a Broadcast Sheet (Build Card)?

frwl

Posted 2022-04-23 12:46 PM (#621039 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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.
The paint should be looking like this;
And the trim like that, except a swiveling seats...

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frwl

Posted 2022-04-23 12:52 PM (#621040 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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.
Sorry; this is correct paint:
White Roof, White Fins, White Lower Color and Light Blue Saddle...

(3.jpg)

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Jdv

Posted 2022-04-23 1:34 PM (#621042 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

Member

Posts: 17

I will post some more photos later of the interior but here is one to show you what I'm driving right now.

(Compress_20220423_103306_6659.jpg)

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Jdv

Posted 2022-04-23 1:42 PM (#621043 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

Member

Posts: 17

I don't have the build sheet. I looked all over the car and was unable to find one. I have an email into Chrysler Historical like some members have recommended, so we will see what they can provide me.

My car does have under coating, and looks like it had some kind of insulation that must have came out at some point. Any pictures of what that insulation install would look like?

My car has the louver trim on the quarters and chrome fin inserts.

My car has the original interior

It is a pretty low mile car that was garaged most of it's life.(barn). It was purchased new in Oakland, Ca and lived in San Leandro/Hayward CA.

Edited by Jdv 2022-04-23 6:13 PM

frwl

Posted 2022-04-23 2:13 PM (#621044 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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Wow…
I see some options:
Hood ornament 408
Twin o/s mirrors 401 and 403 (does the left mirror have remote control 402?),
Solex tinted glass – all around 466,
Rear quarter stone shields 359,
Dual antennas 333…

Here a couple pictures of under hood pad;
Not sure which of those are factory installed...

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Jdv

Posted 2022-04-23 6:11 PM (#621048 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

Member

Posts: 17

It has the remote adjustment on the driver mirror. Here are a couple more pictures of the car.

(Compress_20220423_185007_7519.jpg)

(Compress_20220423_185007_7119.jpg)

(Compress_20220423_185007_7323.jpg)

(Compress_20220423_185006_6928.jpg)

(Compress_20220423_185006_6324.jpg)

(Compress_20220423_185006_6499.jpg)

(Compress_20220423_185006_6146.jpg)

(Compress_20220423_185006_6755.jpg)

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frwl

Posted 2022-04-24 2:42 AM (#621065 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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.
So,
Radio
Heater
Inside Glare Proof Mirror (non-Mirror Matic)
Electric Clock
Safety Cushion Dash Panel
Two Tone Steering Wheel (can’t see the power steering script on it)
Power Brakes
Hand Brake Flasher
Windshield Washer Bag

According to the pictures you posted, the car has equipped with almost every Accessory Groups 312, 314, 315, 317 and 318;

Rear Seat Speaker and Left Remote Control Mirror were a separate options;
By the way: Is it factory-installed mirror? The push button mirror control should be located just below the transmission control… or not?

(1959 Dodge Accessory Groups.jpg)

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Jdv

Posted 2022-04-24 10:29 AM (#621070 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

Member

Posts: 17

Thank you for all the information. The mirror remote is mounted on a chrome bracket under the dash next to the emergency brake light. I posted a picture of the location. Any other pictures you want to see?

frwl

Posted 2022-04-24 1:41 PM (#621079 - in reply to #621070)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

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Jdv - 2022-04-24 10:29 AM

Thank you for all the information. The mirror remote is mounted on a chrome bracket under the dash next to the emergency brake light. I posted a picture of the location. Any other pictures you want to see?

Glad to help.
I would like to see an engine bay full picture and the Chrysler Historical reply when you got it…

Jdv

Posted 2022-04-24 2:26 PM (#621080 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

Member

Posts: 17

Engine bay pictures. We will see what information I get back. I just sent the email a couple of days ago

(Compress_20220424_112820_0933.jpg)

(Compress_20220424_112821_1161.jpg)

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Jdv

Posted 2022-04-25 11:49 AM (#621090 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

Member

Posts: 17

On the ornamental group. Do you know what the rear license plate frame is?

Edited by Jdv 2022-04-25 11:55 AM

frwl

Posted 2022-04-25 1:45 PM (#621093 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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Hello Joel; thanks for the engine bay pictures.

Unfortunately, I do not know what the rear license plate is. I guess it's just a chromed frame with MOPAR or Dodge logo.
Looks like your car doesn't have the ornamental group 318. It is equipped only with chrome fin end inserts and dual rear fender antennas as separate options that included in this group, but there is no license plate frame. Otherwise, the M3 slot on your cowl tag would have the number 8, not 9; i.e. M3 = 8, as in the picture below.

So, I guess
M3 = 8 = order code 318 = Fin End Chrome Inserts, Dual Rear Antennas, Rear License Plate Frame – Accessory Group #318
M3 = 9 = order code 419 = Fin End Chrome Inserts Only…

BTW, the column M2 = 3 (order code 373) on the cowl tag I posted means D500 option…

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RDP

Posted 2022-05-22 4:31 PM (#621663 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

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Location: PL / EU

another LA built '57 Plymouth

https://www.hemmings.com/auction/1957-plymouth-savoy-791213

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frwl

Posted 2022-05-23 1:06 PM (#621680 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

Expert

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We had discussion about SG4 code here:

http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=76945&...

A guessing about SG4 = Accessory Group #4 did not confirm;
All options included in accessory group 178 (as a part of group 174) are present on that car:
Wheel Covers
Rear Quarter Stone Shields
Inside Prismatic Mirror
Cigar Lighter
Glove Box Lock

If we look closer on the 1957 Plymouth order code sheet, there are a couple codes added – written by hand above codes 178, and 172 – 311 and 312 respectively.
I highlighted them by red. It might be replaced accessory group codes. If so, the “old” code 178 was replaced on “new” code 311, while the next code 172 to the code 312.

According to the pictures, these options (code 178 or code 311) are present on the car posted by Robert as well:
Wheel Covers
Rear Quarter Stone Shields
Inside Prismatic Mirror
Cigar Lighter
Glove Box Lock

Maybe the cowl tag code M2 = 1 deciphering as Accessory Group 311, while a SG4 = 394 just a Solex Glass…

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frwl

Posted 2022-05-23 2:42 PM (#621681 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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311, 312 and 313 are not “new” Accessory Group Codes; these are Los Angeles-built Codes!!!
So, 1957 Plymouth:
Detroit Plant Accessory Groups 178, 172 and 173 are correspond to the Los Angeles Plant Accessory Groups 311, 312 and 313:

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Jdv

Posted 2022-07-09 4:35 AM (#622735 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

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Posts: 17

I received a scan of the build card back for my 59 dodge. It's the blue car a few posts up this page.

Jdv

Posted 2022-07-09 4:35 AM (#622736 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

Member

Posts: 17

I received a scan of the build card back for my 59 dodge. It's the blue car a few posts up this page.

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frwl

Posted 2022-07-09 3:24 PM (#622755 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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13 = 8.00 x 14 White Side Wall Tires – 4 Ply
293 = Transmission – 3 Speed Automatic Torqueflite
312 = Accessory Group 312 – see below
314 = Accessory Group 314 – see below
316 = Accessory Group 316 – see below
317 = Accessory Group 317 – see below
408 = Hood Ornament
419 = Fin End Chrome Inserts - - - M3 = 9 on the cowl tag
429 = Rear Quarter Ornaments – Chevrons - - - M4 = 9 on the cowl tag
466 = Solex Tinted Glass – All Windows
501 = Undercoating and Underhood Pad - - - M5 = 1 on the cowl tag
533 = Rear Axle Ratio 3.31 to 1
607 = Antifreeze

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RDP

Posted 2022-07-09 3:33 PM (#622756 - in reply to #622736)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

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Location: PL / EU

Jdv - 2022-07-09 10:35 AM

I received a scan of the build card back for my 59 dodge. It's the blue car a few posts up this page.

Thanks for sharing, can you tell dealer name ?

Jdv

Posted 2022-07-10 2:35 AM (#622773 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

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Posts: 17

Email from Historical said J.E. French Company was the dealer in San Francisco, but I believe the original owner bought it from their Oakland dealer. The original frames are still on the car. Also, here is another try at the build sheet without that info. Box in the way

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RDP

Posted 2022-07-10 5:23 AM (#622775 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

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Thanks Joel! I have codes for two other locations - Oakland and Berkeley,
so this is the third code for J.E. French.

frwl

Posted 2022-08-02 2:33 PM (#623353 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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1958 Plymouth Custom Suburban

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RDP

Posted 2023-01-14 6:08 AM (#626931 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

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We talked about it at the beginning of this thread, but it won't hurt to say it again, that in 1957-59 Los Angeles plant used two slighty different data plates:

first in the 1956 scheme (let's call it scheme 1) - SG EW M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6 M7 M8

second in the 1957 scheme (let's call it scheme 2) - SG EW M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6 SEQ_NO

More often I see body plates from the scheme 1. Interestingly, the use of scheme 1 or 2 does not depend on the car's production date.
Sometimes the "SEQ NO" field is blank, but sometimes the sequence number is stamped on the scheme 1 plate (in the M6 M7 M8 area).
What a mess.
Why am I talking about this? Because option codes for M7 M8 M9 never occur. Almost…

Here's the ‘59 Plymouth plate. What's interesting about it? I only know three with M6 stamped – ’57 Plymouht M6=1, ’59 Dodge M6=5 and this car.
This is the only plate with the M8 stamped on it. There are also three others with a option code stamp on the SEQ NO line, but anyway, it's rare.

Edited by RDP 2023-01-14 6:12 AM

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frwl

Posted 2023-01-14 2:39 PM (#626941 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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The M6, M7 and M8 codes are seldom occurring because those are station wagon items, I think.
M1 = 8 is a code 328 – Locked Luggage Compartment;
M6 = 5 is a code 305 – Power Tail Gate Window;
I have no idea about M8 = 1; the pictures of this car or an options describing were helpfully for disclosure it.

BTW: what transmission this car equipped with?

frwl

Posted 2023-01-14 2:50 PM (#626942 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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Here the picture of six-cylinder 4 Door Deluxe Suburban (174) vs. yours 2 Door Deluxe Suburban V8 (273);
It also came with luggage lock (M8=1) but manual tail gate window (M6 is blank) but M8 option is present: 7 (or 4) – can’t read.
My guessing initially it is a front bumper guards (outer wings, code 357) but I was wrong…

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RDP

Posted 2023-01-16 12:10 PM (#627011 - in reply to #626941)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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Location: PL / EU

frwl - 2023-01-14 8:39 PM
The M6, M7 and M8 codes are seldom occurring because those are station wagon items, I think.

you're probably right, I've only seen them on the '58-'59 station wagons, but also on the '57 sedans

frwl - 2023-01-14 8:39 PM
the pictures of this car or an options describing were helpfully for disclosure it.

BTW: what transmission this car equipped with?

three on the tree, 2dr, outside spare tire

frwl

Posted 2023-01-16 3:17 PM (#627019 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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Thanks for reply, Robert. Did you say “three on tree”? Hmmm….
The M8 = 1 code might be means it – 3 Speed Manual Trans, code 341, like on the ’56 LA-built Dodge cowl tags…
While M8 = 4 code might be means the 3 Speed Manual Trans with Overdrive – code 344…
Can’t identify: does this car have Overdrive?

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frwl

Posted 2023-01-16 3:43 PM (#627021 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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Sorry, wrong tab – my bad;
’59 Plymouth transmission codes started at 29x, not at 34x
I’ve meant 291 – manual and 294 – overdrive trans…

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frwl

Posted 2023-01-25 7:09 AM (#627227 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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1957 DeSoto Firesweep Sportsman from old thread:

Quote from description from the seller:

Trim tag and all ID tags intact. This is how it decodes: S-27 Firesweep 3146 Sportsman, Paint VLV: V = Spring Special Spanish Gold (roof), L = Frosty White (main body), V = Spring Spanish (lower sweep) all original never repainted. Trim 563 is a Special Beige and Grey cloth, vinyl built in Los Angeles in final 300 of end of production 13,333 produced. There are only 66 of this model accounted for. 325 ci engine push button Torqueflite transmission.

http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=34212&...

Question: might the cowl tag code M4 = 2 be a code 532 = “Sweep Moulding with Colour Insert”?
If so, the single moulding would be coded as 531, and would have M4 = 1 on the cowl tag.
Any confirmation?

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frwl

Posted 2024-03-14 3:58 PM (#634203 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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Continuing the discussion about LA-built ’59 Plymouth data plate “M8” column codes:

M8 – 1 – 311 – Accessory Group No. 1 including:

308 – Electric Clock
359 – Rear Quarter Stone Shields
427 – Glove Box Lock
511 – Wheel Covers

M8 – 7 – 427 – Glove Box Lock Only

It might be so…

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frwl

Posted 2024-05-06 2:18 PM (#635041 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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1958 Chrysler Windsor 2-Door Hardtop
Originally Satin Gray Monotone Paint Scheme (code KKK)
Red Vinyl and Gray Bahama Cloth (code 15)
Torqueflite, Power Steering and Brakes
Optional Large Rear Window (probably was shaded – order code 469)
Single Spear Side Mouldings were standard in 1958 therefore did not stamped on the tag

M5 = 1 = Undercoating as we know already
M2 = 2 = No idea yet...

1958 Chrysler order codes that ends on “2”:

302 = Power Brakes
312 = Accessory Group – no info about it; I’ve been searching this info over two years…
322 = Ivory Convertible Top Color
342 = Heater with Defroster including Air Conditioning – Dual Unit
352 = Rear Air Foam Seat Cushion
362 = Benrus Self-Winding Steering Wheel Clock
382 = Rear License Plate Frame
402 = Remote-Control Outside Left Rear View Mirror
412 = Insert Moulding (car has factory standard single spear moulding and monotone paint that excepting this item)
422 = Drip Rail Moulding – not sure about correctness this order code item, but it is present on the car
522 = Variable Speed Windshield Wipers
562 = Sold Car

I'm leaning towards the version about Power Brakes (code 302) or Rear License Plate Frame (code 382)
Any thoughts about M2 = 2… ?

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Powerflite

Posted 2024-05-06 6:19 PM (#635045 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

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I would seriously doubt that the license frame would be coded on the LA body tag. I have never seen that encoded even on Detroit-built cars in '57 or '58. I suspect that it was installed at the dealer and they didn't bother to encode it on the tag. Do you have an example of one that has it encoded in these years? Also, a lowly Windsor wouldn't likely have purchased a very rare option like that.

Also, I've never seen a Chrysler in these years that didn't come with drip rail moldings. And they were never mentioned on the tag. So that one isn't it either. Some of them obviously do not apply such as dual A/C, remote side mirror etc. as this car doesn't have them. One thing this car does have, which isn't mentioned is rear bumper guards & the large rear window! Which options would those fit into, or could it be part of Acc Group2? Certainly, they would have wanted to code in that big rear window somewhere, right?

I think your best contenders (in order of likelihood) are:

1. Accessory Group 2 (most likely) [Large Rear Window + Rear bumper Guards?]
2. Power brakes
3. Sold car
4. Variable wipers
5. Rear foam seat cushion

Edited by Powerflite 2024-05-06 6:28 PM

frwl

Posted 2024-05-07 12:49 PM (#635058 - in reply to #635045)
Subject: Re: LA body tag general info

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Powerflite - 2024-05-06 6:19 PM

I would seriously doubt that the license frame would be coded on the LA body tag.
I have never seen that encoded even on Detroit-built cars in '57 or '58.
I suspect that it was installed at the dealer and they didn't bother to encode it on the tag.
Do you have an example of one that has it encoded in these years?

Yes, I have.
Matt (aka christine-lover) cleared up this fact by 1958 Dodge Coronet:

«5 under the 58 is for spring special license plate escutcheon and fin end caps. The dealer script is Reedman in Langhorne PA. I’ve worked for them since 2004, now Reedman-Toll.»

Look at this thread:

Viewing a thread - 58 Coronet 2dr Hardtop Spring Special (forwardlook.net)

frwl

Posted 2024-05-07 12:50 PM (#635059 - in reply to #608351)
Subject: RE: LA body tag general info

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Sorry, this way:

http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=78818&...

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