Hunting for a correct 1968 alternator (part # and date code)

[bertfam]

So you are saying on the "base" engines that alternators, carbs, voltage regulators, starters and similar "dated" engine components would likely be dated within a few weeks or a month before engine stamping but "rarer" engines would more likely to be dated a couple of months before?

No. Parts that were attached to the engine at the engine dress line for base engines are usually dated close to the build date of the car because they're much more common. Parts that were attached to the engine at the engine dress line for optional engines are usually dated farther out from the build date of the car because they were less common. It just depends on the engine and options. For example, they made thousands of LF7 cars so those would have parts dated closer together than an L78 or a Z28. None of this is cut and dried though. It's just a general rule.

Ed

[67/68Brian]

Hi Bert,
Thanks but still doesn't really answer my "date code" window question very specifically. While I understand the concept it still is tough for a "home" restorer to know what "time period" to look for. While I realize there are differences for popular/common versus rare/unusual engine or accessory combinations I think most of us are looking to get it right with the "time frame" as it relates to engine stamp/cowl code dating.
Is there any way you could come up with an approximate window/time frame?
Thanks very much,
Brian
PS: I think plenty of members would like to know before they go out on the search for the needle in the haystack part to rebuild. Thanks again!

[bcmiller]

Brian,

There are no hard and fast rules. I know you want an answer. The answer is that part dates can vary between a week or two to a few months.

[KurtS]

Parts came into the plant, parts were used. High volume application were used in higher volumes and generally weren't stored.

[67/68Brian]

That’s it! A week or two to a few months. Just what I wanted to hear!
I hope you eventually post that on the website.
Thanks for all you do for the Camaro hobby