L 78 dated carb

[paint4metal]

Hi all, I am trying to match up a date correct holley 4346 for my 1969
375 HP 4spd. El Camino, with an engine code T0218JD , and a body build date, 3A. How many days , or weeks would the carb, normally, pre date the body build date? Dave

[mockingbird812]

Dave - the engine assembly date (T0218JD or Feb 18th) is the date that you want use as a reference point, not the body build date. As the engine ass’bly date is the date that all pieces on the engine must precede. I’ll let the experts chime in as to what are the permissible carb dates.

[paint4metal]

Ok, Thank you, Dave

[Mr70]

As the engine ass’bly date is the date that all pieces on the engine must precede.

Not necessarily true,the Carburetor was put on the engine AFTER Tonawanda stamped their assembly date on it,which documented when it became a single running unit.
They used a propane device to fire the engine,in place of a carburetor as it didn't have a fuel line/gas tank attached to it yet,and also couldn't,due to that being a fire hazard during shipment.
So they had to be shipped to their destined car manufacturer "dry".
So technically,you could have an engine with a carburetor date PROceeding your Tonawanda assembly date.

[mockingbird812]

I did not know that Rick. Thanks for the education!

[WILMASBOYL78]

There are likely common dates for these since they were batched produced...I'm sure the date code police can offer some acceptable options...or someone here must have a suitable dated piece.

good luck..

-wilma

[paint4metal]

Thanks Rick, I am leaning as well. One thing I should add, is
The car was built in KS

[Stefano]

There is a January dated one for sale in the classified.....

[TopRat]

I have a 4346 Main body with a build date of 935. I’m guessing that is way late for your car?

[the427king]

I just picked up a 922 and a few others in that range. My l78 was built same week, and i think it had a 921 ?? if memory serves me