12 BOLT DATE CODES

[tyrfryrtom]

Hello,

Does the date code on the axle tube need to the the same as the casting date on the carrier housing?  How far apart should they be?  I have a rear that has been rebuilt and I think the axle tubes have been replaced an restamped. 

Thanks

Tom

[JohnZ]

The casting date only refers to the date the iron center section was poured at the foundry; the stamped date on the RH axle tube is the date the axle assembly was completed (tubes, brakes, diff, etc.). Generally, the axle assembly date will be within 1-6 weeks after the casting date, but there are exceptions. The only "rule" is that the stamped assembly date must be after the center section casting date.

[tyrfryrtom]

Thanks JohnZ,

The date on the center section is B 7 8 and the axle tube is BU 0313.  I was told that it was a March 69 3.73 posi rear.

[Z71]

B 7 8 - Feb 8, 1968

0313 - Mar 13th

I was told that it was a March 69 3.73 posi rear

Appears to be March 1968 in a 1968 car