1968 L48 Original Engine Component Part Number Help Needed

[dlshady]

Guys,

I'm currently restoring a 1968 SS350 and have found conflicting information regarding which components the engine should have.  Hoping that some of you guys can help me with a few part numbers because I'd like to make sure I get the proper parts.  Specifics of the car are listed below and I'm looking for alternator, starter and distributor part numbers.

1968 SS350  05E
L48/TH350 (this was one of the TH350 test fleet cars, but that might not make any difference on these components)
A/C

The alternator and starter have obviously been changed over the years but my customer states that he has no recollection of ever replacing the distributor, and he's owned it since 1972 or 1973.  Having said that, the distributor I that came out of the car was a 1111168 unit with a date code of 7F23.  I wouldn't think there's much chance a 7F23 unit would have still been laying around long enough to make it into a May 1968 built vehicle, would it?  I'm guessing that one was replaced before he bought the car.

Thanks in advance, and any help will be greatly appreciated!
Deron

[Petes L48]

That approximate 11 months variance sounds way beyond the "normal" acceptable date range for engine components.  But the experts may chime in, if they've seen seen otherwise.

[dlshady]

My thoughts as well.  Every other known original piece on this engine was 2nd or 3rd week of May 1968 so I can't imagine why the distributor would be any different.  That part number looks like the correct distributor for a 1967 SS350 but I've seen some material that suggests it's correct for 1968 as well.  Other sources say that the 1111169 distributor is what I should have.

[Petes L48]

I think the 168 was used throughout  67-68 model year for A/T L48s, and  the 169 was used on 67-68 model year L35s and 68 model year L34 with A/T.

[Gars68Tux]

From the GM Heritage data I received years ago covering 68, L48/auto got the 168 distributor, but not sure if that includes the TH350 auto ? I wouldn't be surprised if it was different...

169 distributor was used with L35, all transmissions.   

[z28z11]

CBTN lists the '68 350/295 horse L48 as 1111168 as mentioned above. 1111169 was used on 396/325 all, and 396/350 horse A/T only versions. Funny, no 168 in the Chevelles, as the L48 was not included in that lineup, only the Chevy ll and Camaro. The 169 made through all three models.

Regards,
Steve

[dlshady]

I appreciate the info guys.  For now I guess I'll just stick with the 168 distributor that came out of the car even though the date code isn't what I'd expect it to be. 

Anyone have info on the correct starter and alternator I should have?