Moparts
1966 hemi coronet decoder
Posted By: indy dart
1966 hemi coronet decoder - 12/30/09 01:01 AM
I'm going to look at a hemi coronet in a couple of days. The guy says it has a buildsheet and the original engine. I have no idea how to decode a VIN or buildsheet. Can anyone help out? Thanks
If it's a 1966 Hemi car the fifth digit in the VIN will be an H. Of course that's if that VIN Tag actually came on that particular car. The engine did not have VIN number stampings that year but they did have particular assembly date info that should link to the cars build date, takes a decent education to figure out what is correct. Re-body and fake Hemi cars (and fake fender tags & Broadcast Sheets) are common these days, you can't take anything at face value anymore. It sounds like you should obtain some expert to take with you for help if you plan on making a good on the spot buying decision.
Posted By: indy dart
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 12/30/09 01:32 AM
You're right, I have already contacted an expert to go along.
Posted By: six-barrel
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 12/30/09 02:49 AM
I'm not sure on 66 but for 67 (I believe 66 and 67 are the same).
Look on the inside of the upper rad support, there should be a stamping of the sequence number. The same number is also stamped on the driver side rear bumper support (or somewhere around there).
Anyway this number is the sequence "build" number not the vin.
You need the broadcast sheet that has the the vin and the sequence number to confirm the body sequence matches. Also make sure the vin tag rivets are the rosette style.
Without the broadcast sheet it's pretty hard to confirm the body sequence and vin number. It's buyer beware.
The body should have reinforced spring perches as well as a couple of there "Hemi" modifications.
The more original documentation the seller has the better, good luck.
Quote:
I'm not sure on 66 but for 67 (I believe 66 and 67 are the same).
Look on the inside of the upper rad support, there should be a stamping of the sequence number. The same number is also stamped on the driver side rear bumper support (or somewhere around there).
Anyway this number is the sequence "build" number not the vin.
You need the broadcast sheet that has the the vin and the sequence number to confirm the body sequence matches. Also make sure the vin tag rivets are the rosette style.
Without the broadcast sheet it's pretty hard to confirm the body sequence and vin number. It's buyer beware.
The body should have reinforced spring perches as well as a couple of there "Hemi" modifications.
The more original documentation the seller has the better, good luck.
You are on the right track but not quite hitting the bullseye's.
66 and 67 were different (5th VIN digit was an H for Hemi engine in 66, the fith VIN digit was a J for Hemi in 1967)
The SO number is stamped on the drivers side radiator core support and USUALLY on the drivers side rear panel behind and below the rear bumper, this same number is found on the fender tag and the Broadcast Sheet. The VIN number is not found on the fender tag, only on the Broadcast sheet. Both the VIN and SPD are also found on the factory Certicard should the owner have a copy.
The only unibody body "Hemi" modifications include forward leaf spring Torque boxes, reinforcement plates within the Torque boxes, rear leaf spring hanger reinforcement plates, and a pinion snubber plate on the floor above the pinion snubber. Not every Hemi car recieved these weld on additions (although all SHOULD have) the lack of them does not dethrone it as a Hemi car, but it would lead to some serious questioning as it's quite rare for them to be lacking.
The Hemi K-Member is unique and has a skid plate.
All 4 speed cars had Dana 60 rear ends, all automatic cars had 8.75 rear ends.
Factory wheels were all the same, 14 x 5.5 steel wheels (look for a "5" stamped on both sides of the valve stem hole) with either full wheel covers or dog dish style hub caps
Posted By: 69CoronetRT
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 12/30/09 05:28 AM
Quote:
Both the VIN and SO number are also found on the factory Certicard should the owner have a copy.
VIN yes. I thought the SPD is there but not the remainder of the SO.
Quote:
The VIN number is only found on the fender tag....
RT you are correct on both, mixed my terms while typing, thanks for catching that. I also forgot to mention the Certicard, a 66 car would have come with one located in a black plastic pouch attached to the back side of the drivers side radiator core support, if it's there and original it will have the VIN# and some of the info shown on the fender tag as well.
Fender tag - Same car
VIN tag, different car, rivots are correct
SO stamping location in rear
Core support stamp area
All 66 Hemi's had a unique bracket shown here (black bracket and all else shown attached to it). It was unique to Hemi's only, one year only.
The rear leaf spring eye support plates - Hemi only parts, not even convertibles got these unless they were Hemi convertibles
Forward Leaf Spring Torque Boxes (area sprayed with white primer)
.jpg "5697490-TorqueBox(2).jpg")
Posted By: indy dart
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 12/30/09 11:28 AM
Good info guys. The car is supposed to have the broadcast sheet. The car is said to be a lo-mile survivor. I have been on my share of wild-goose chases so I am cautious. I appreciate the info and if it pans out I will get pics.
Again, just be aware that there are reproductions of everything these days, fender tags, VIN tags, window stockers, certicards, engine stampings, body stampings, torque boxes, and yes, even broadcast sheets (artifically aged looking and all!) anything that identifies a car as a "real" hemi is available now, you can't take anything at face value these days!
Posted By: indy dart
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 12/30/09 05:27 PM
We have looked at the car. It is without a doubt the real deal. It is a 12000 mile police captain's car. It has many unique features. I wish someone would call me to help verify a few things. 417-327-5869 It has the vin wl21h. It is a very exciting find.
I sent you my phone number
Posted By: Finoke
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 12/30/09 06:48 PM
I can email you pictures of a real 66 Hemi Coronet broadcast sheet if you want.
PM me your email address.
Tom
Posted By: hemicar1971
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 12/30/09 06:56 PM
Try to find as much History about the car as you can from this owner. Things like previous owners, were this owner bought the car from. Low mile cars usually have a Race History, not all but a lot. This History is good both before and after purchases. Maybe it is a real Hemi car and its missing a Distributor and you could phone previous owners and ask them were missing parts could be and also you could get old pictures and history from them.
Nothing like an old show box Hemi car.
Posted By: indy dart
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 12/31/09 02:36 AM
Well the car is now at my buddys house as he had first dibs on it. Finding that car in a junk filled garage after it sat since 1974 is exciting. It was ordered through the San Bernadino police department for the police captain as the story goes. It has power front disc and the broadcast sheet mentions this as a police car item. It is supposed to have the original engine. The owner has somewhere the correct intake and carbs. It currently has a crossram and holleys. The car has a perfect body with original paint. No rust anywhere but the paint is less than perfect and that is to be expected. Plenty of 40 year old dirt. It is missing a few items but overall it was a good purchase. We hope to get some pics soon.
Posted By: srt
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 12/31/09 04:41 AM
awesome find! Please do post pics.
Is it a 2, or 4 door?
Posted By: Commando1
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 12/31/09 02:22 PM
Hemi PLUS cop car....
That has GOTTA be a 1 of 1!
Congratulations to your buddy.
Posted By: indy dart
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/01/10 04:37 PM
Well, it seems the car is even more than we originally thought. We were afraid the car was going to be worth less than purchase price but we were wrong. Scott, if you are reading this I hope you chime in and explain a few things if you see fit. Thanks again for your help.
The car is an original (12K miles showing and appear original) 1966 Hemi 4 speed Coronet Deluxe 2 door Sedan, white paint, blue interior. Apparently it was ordered by a Police chief and used as his personal vehicle, a single extra light was installed in the grille (looks like a small rectangular fog lamp) and from what I can gather, a Motrola police radio was installed. Other than that it's a typical Street Hemi car, not a factory police car or anything. Car has a partial Broadcast Sheet, certicard, fender tag, VIN tag, all check out as legit (certicard would fill in any BS missing info). Car was a VERY late build, 3rd week of July 1966 and has (rare for 1966) factory power disc brakes and manual steering.
Now, to me the interesting part is what happened next. Allot of guesswork involved in this but when you put all the circumstances and clues together it makes sense. The original engine was MIA, it was replaced with another Hemi, but this one is equipped with a vintage aluminum cross ram, dual Holleys, the block stamping pad is clearly stamped M426, the "M" which from all I can come up with stands for "Marine". My best guess is he puffed the original engine and went over to Kieth Black Racing Engines (his shop is in the same area as the original owner) and bought a crate Hemi cross ram engine to install, or judging by what appear to be 66-71 style heads, just bought a replacement shortblock and the cross ram, he even had a domed KB Racing emblem stuck on the car (very cool!). In my opinion the vintage "Crate" Cross Ram Hemi is a very special piece in it's own right, I've read about them and seen a few blurry photos but never actually seen one, especially 100% complete, it's beyond super cool, I'm sure there are a few guys who would fight HARD to own that piece!
Other additions to the car include a Max Wedge Aluminum hood scoop, 5 spoke front runners, line lock, slotted aluminum rear wheels, a correct 67 RO/WO style reverse lockout Hurst shifter (with red nob on Reverse lockout, super rare piece!), dual trunk mount batteries (look to be factory SS parts, one to run the trunk mounted Motorola unit) A100 van seats (no pics, based on description) 68 side marker lights on all 4 corners, a 70's era drivers door mirror, and stickers here and there from various speed shops and parts he used back in the day. The car looked to have zero rust, all original paint, and to be complete. Other than the dirt and crud covering everything it looked like a time capsule "Day 2" street race car. Personally I would do EVERYTHING in my power to carefully clean it up and drive it exactly how it is. VERY VERY cool nostalgia car that I feel would be worth more than it's equal in ground up restoration simply because you just don't find many in this "Survivor Day 2" condition, not to mention I've noticed a BIG interest swell in super nice original "Day 2" type cars lately. Most of the cars mods appear to have been made between 1966 and 1968.
*If you get permission I'll post pics.
Posted By: indy dart
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/01/10 06:44 PM
Scott, Darren is the current owner. He has your phone # and will contact you and I will send his # in a PM. He said it would be fine to post the pics. I told him of your interest in the hood scoop and he is more than willing to help out. Looking forward to see the pics posted.
I spoke with Darren (cars new owner, nice guy). He said "sure" on the pics posting.
2
3
4
Engine
Pretty cool!
Posted By: mickm
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/01/10 09:44 PM
i'm mixing this up with another post, not sure which is which, but is this car running?
Posted By: HPMike
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/01/10 10:02 PM
That, folks, is what you call a BLUE CHIP find!!
MB
It could run but hasn't been fired since 1974......Personally I wouldn't try to start it without at least partial tear down
Posted By: MLR426
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/01/10 10:49 PM
That is a super coool piece ! I would not restore that car in any way other than clean up and install new hoses, wires,belts,etc,etc. Take off the oil pan,clean out throughly. Take the valve covers off and remove the intake to check for any mice debris. If no debris is found and it does turn over easy remove the plugs and spray the cylinders with penatrating oil and let it set so the rings are soaking. Check for sweat rust on the cam and lifers. If you see rust internally you have no choice but to rebuild the engine. Either way inspection must be done before you do anything. Remember this engine has sat for years with the valve springs compressed etc. If you plan to sell it don't do anything, don't even wash it. Set back and think about it, are you going to keep this car ??? or sell or trade for a more desireable car you like more. Again if you have any reservatons about selling it DON'T DO ANYTHING TO IT, NOTHING.
Logan426
That's basically what I told the guy
Posted By: Anonymous
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/01/10 11:13 PM
Wow!
Check out the cool vintage racing decals, Racer Brown Cams, Schaefer Clutches, Kieth Black, Hooker Headers, etc.
Here's a better overall shot
pass
Posted By: indy dart
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/01/10 11:31 PM
The spotlight in the grille looks factory installed when viewed up-close. There is an emblem on the dash that reads "When reaching speeds in excess of 120 MPH windows must be rolled up". It has been an exciting piece for sure. Just wish it could tell stories.
Posted By: Anonymous
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/01/10 11:34 PM
Any interior pics?
Were the A-100 style seats factory installed as well?
The seats are similar to A100 seats but after a look don't appear to be, and no, they were not factory installed, car originally had a bench seat (as all sedans did).
Quote:
The spotlight in the grille looks factory installed when viewed up-close.
Cleanly installed yes, but it's not factory
Posted By: indy dart
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/01/10 11:39 PM
Myself, I dont have the interior pics. The car is close by and I will visit next week. I will get some pics. I assume the seats were installed afterward as the vinyl does not match. Scott knows the particulars better than I do.
Here's an interior shot, no beauty queen but if it were me I'd clean it, detail it, get the wiring squared away and leave it "as is" without a re-do in an effort to keep it original to "Day 2"
Here's what the front seat used to look like
Posted By: AZ-Nick
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 03:06 AM
after seeing the pics I am very curious as to what the cost was, I have never seen a Hemi in a garage or in a barn and I have no idea what something like this would cost to buy!
Posted By: indy dart
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 03:12 AM
Nice interior pics Scott. Thats a homemade trans tunnel to accomodate the shifter. I assume it has line-lock.
Yes it has a line lock, interior looks ratty but Like I said, it will likely clean up to look a TON better with a good detail job. I think I figured out why the swap to buckets was made (haven't quite figured out what car those are out of?) the shifter style shown locates the shifter further back than the stock position (likely hitting the bench seat) it requires a rearward notch to be cut in the factory floor hump to install it, also why they likely built the aluminum enclosure for the shifter box.
Also, with the amount of dirt on that interior I can only guess it sat for a fair amount of time with the windows rolled down? I'd be checking the floor for moisture damage, hopefully it never got wet inside, if the carpet ever got wet it will likely be needing floor pans, and that would suck on such an otherwise dry car.
Posted By: 62maxwgn
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 03:31 AM
Here is another one to make you sick,6000mi
Posted By: 62maxwgn
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 03:35 AM
It's real.
Posted By: mickm
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 03:51 AM
Quote:
Here's an interior shot, no beauty queen but if it were me I'd clean it, detail it, get the wiring squared away and leave it "as is" without a re-do in an effort to keep it original to "Day 2"
but how do you "clean up" something like that? it seems like it would just be opening up a can of worms. everything would need to be taken off or apart to really clean, then just exposing the mess beneath it, ad infinitum!
i like the idea of day 2, but in a case like this, it seems like cleaning it would be difficult, and almost as much work as restoring it!
Some or most of the interior would need to be at least removed to get it back up to snuff, but a careful removal, thorough cleaning, and reinstallation would be no big deal, just a bunch of hours, I've taken on much worse.
62mxwgn,
WOW! That is a shame, what's the deal with that one? What trans?
Posted By: cogen80
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 12:26 PM
cool car. some better pictures would have been nice though. those suck.
Posted By: 62maxwgn
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 01:57 PM
Quote:
62mxwgn,
WOW! That is a shame, what's the deal with that one? What trans?
Scott,that car has not moved since 1969.Original motor is chicken coop on homeade engine stand,locked up for years.Was raced for two years then taken apart to make streetable,thats as far as it went.Transmission is original with old Fairbanks deep pan.Flex plate mounting lugs are completely rusted off converter.Been trying to buy since 1980,it will sit and rot.Owner could care less about the car or money.One of 19 Deluxe 2dr auto sedans.
Posted By: Commando1
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 02:18 PM
Posted By: AZ-Nick
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 02:38 PM
Quote:
Quote:
62mxwgn,
WOW! That is a shame, what's the deal with that one? What trans?
Scott,that car has not moved since 1969.Original motor is chicken coop on homeade engine stand,locked up for years.Was raced for two years then taken apart to make streetable,thats as far as it went.Transmission is original with old Fairbanks deep pan.Flex plate mounting lugs are completely rusted off converter.Been trying to buy since 1980,it will sit and rot.Owner could care less about the car or money.One of 19 Deluxe 2dr auto sedans.
Bill - you are killing me with that picture..... 
I can never understand why people that own cars like that won't come off of them? Must be some kind of mental disorder because it is sure seems to be common. The car that's on the rotiserie in primer in my earlier posts on this thread is another one of the 19 you mentioned, it was light blue metallic with a blue interior, it's from Concord California, I've known the car since about 1985.
Posted By: MLR426
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 03:36 PM
Quote:
I can never understand why people that own cars like that won't come off of them? Must be some kind of mental disorder because it is sure seems to be common. The car that's on the rotiserie in primer in my earlier posts on this thread is another one of the 19 you mentioned, it was light blue metallic with a blue interior, it's from Concord California, I've known the car since about 1985.
Mental disorder is correct 
We always ask ourselfs why do people allow the special cars to set out side in the weather if they are not going to sell them or do anything with them, what kind of reasoning, mental block or just plain nut case thought process do they use ? The answer is NONE because they have the thought process of morons..in most cases. 
logan426
Right Logan, I mean I can understand if someone wants to keep a car for "Someday", maybe they actualy will do something with it. But in a case like this where it's been left to the eliments it's unlikely that an eventual restoration isn't what he has in mind.
Posted By: 62maxwgn
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 04:27 PM
Scott,I've known about this car since it was raced locally,only changed hands once.I think the present owner had good intentions as to making it streetable again but once it was apart it just never got put back together.It has sat where you see it since Sept of 69.Even though it has sat that long,it is still in remarkably good condition body wise other than the passenger side of the top cowl and front floors.This one was originally Gold with Gold interior.The original owner that raced it has been trying to get it back longer than I have.As well as I know the present owner,it will never happen.All either of us will have are pictures.
Quote:
The original owner that raced it has been trying to get it back longer than I have.As well as I know the present owner,it will never happen.All either of us will have are pictures.
Well, everybody dies, now it's just a race to the finish 
Posted By: 62maxwgn
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 04:36 PM
Quote:
Quote:
The original owner that raced it has been trying to get it back longer than I have.As well as I know the present owner,it will never happen.All either of us will have are pictures.
Well, everybody dies, now it's just a race to the finish
But,this guy is a lot younger than I am! 
Start taking your Metamucil and layoff the cheeseburgers then!
Posted By: earlybee
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 04:39 PM
Maybe the owner just does'nt like Bill or his ways to buy it. The owner may be nuts but he NEEDS or WANTS something. (Hannibal Lecter)
Bill needs a better game plan.
Posted By: MLR426
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 04:42 PM
I think the dis-order is people are aware they get attention with the car they would'nt normally get. People have unrealistic dreams with the budgets they live on. They always have hope of one day restoring the car but never put forth the effort it takes to improve their check book. Nor do they in most cases know how to turn a screw driver, but as the saying goes I'm going to restore it some day, or I'm going to give it to my son for his 16th birthday, question how old is your son now ? 6
That some day comes and goes and never happens.
Bill, you do need a better plan it sounds. You have known this man for years.. What kind of car does he like the most ? Take a running,driving car there don't offer it right away just dangle it by giving him a ride etc, then leave and allow him a few days to let it soak into his thick skull, then reappear with the car and offer the trade. If he's married maybe use the wifes favorite car.
logan426
Posted By: 62maxwgn
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 05:00 PM
I came close in the early 90's.Told me he may do something with it the following spring and if not come see him in the fall.A lot of spring and fall's have come and gone.He is single,has a very good job and the money isn't relevent.He has had it so long he just can't bring himself to let go of it.It gets very little attention if any as it is out in the country about a mile back a dirt lane off the main road so it's not "look what I have".He is not that type.
Know what I'd do? Offer him a weekend of your time to go out there and get the thing cleaned up and stored properly, at least it might help prevent further deterioration before you (or he
) can get around to restoring it someday, same goes for the engine if it's exposed.
Posted By: MLR426
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 05:23 PM
Quote:
Know what I'd do? Offer him a weekend of your time to go out there and get the thing cleaned up and stored properly, at least it might help prevent further deterioration before you (or he ) can get around to restoring it someday, same goes for the engine if it's exposed.
Bill,
Have you thought about the nice driver trade ??
Scott and I will offer our time to go and make sure the car is properly stored. Please forward map instructions. I'll take a roll back transporter with me just in case it needs to be moved to Illinois or Washington 
Kidding aside do what Scott says and offer your time to get it put inside some where.
Logan426
BTW, that's how I ended up with this Cuda (original Shaker Hood 440+6 matching #s car). It sat in his driveway with the engine pulled for MANY years in full view right where you see it sitting in this picture, everyone in Northern California who knew Mopars tried to buy it and all they got was a firm "NO, I'm gonna fix it up" or a crazy high "This will get rid of them" price. I offered to help him store it, clean it up, and restore it (if he'd pay for the expenses). He finally agreed and let me take it and all the parts to my home in Washington! When I got home the title was in the glovebox, he didn't care, he trusted me. A year later he finally realized that he'd never get to it or afford to pay me to restore it and he sold it to me (my dad actually bought it). It's now in a new owners hands (A Moparts member!) and getting a proper restoration.
It can happen!
Posted By: 62maxwgn
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 05:45 PM
I've already been down that road.Like I said,money means nothing,he buys a new Toyota pickup every other year.No interest in any other vehicles.There is really nothing to motivate him.Basicly,he has everything he wants/needs.I stay in touch but that is about all I can do.
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 05:45 PM
All I can say is WOW!
Nice to see that theres some amazing cars still out there.
I agree with Scott to volunteer some time to help him get it out of the elements, maybe even help get it together. Besides it could work in your favor if the car gets moved from the same spot its been sitting in for so long. Outta sight outta mind kinda thing. Mentally it might help him deceide to sell it as its "gone" from the place he's seen it for so long.
Posted By: therocks
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 06:50 PM
There are at least a few people here like that.My buddy lived in the sticks in Pa.We went to bring his 55 Chevy back.He stopped at a few farms he knew.One had a bunch of coupes and old roadsters stored on the hillside.One was a 40 Caddy that was like new when stored.It was up to the bumpers where it had sunk.I asked if they wanted to get rid of any of them.The guy says nope.I might fix them one day.That was probally 20 years ago.They are still sitting there.Rocky
Looks like this guy waited just a little to long to sell his, makes you wonder what the reserve is
66 Coronet
Posted By: 69CoronetRT
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 07:53 PM
It's also tough to believe the bids are over 1K.
Posted By: B5 Bee
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 09:41 PM
Quote:
Looks like this guy waited just a little to long to sell his, makes you wonder what the reserve is
66 Coronet
Do people think they will get a higher bid if they show pics in it's 'as found' state?
What's wrong with getting it off the ground by airing up the tires, cleaning the patina off it, parking it where it won't fill up with leaves, then take pics and list it?
Quote:
Do people think they will get a higher bid if they show pics in it's 'as found' state?
What's wrong with getting it off the ground by airing up the tires, cleaning the patina off it, parking it where it won't fill up with leaves, then take pics and list it?
Sweeping up the broken glass........
Yea, I know, never could figure that one out either
Posted By: HPMike
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 10:08 PM
The body actually looks pretty nice..
I would bet that once you stripped that car out that you would find very little serious rust. When I found my 66 Hemi car it was sitting in an open car lot for umpteen years. I was originally concerned that the thing would be a pile of rust. Quite the contrary. The frame/unibody was the cleanest I had ever seen. Zero rust anywhere. When I sent it out to be media blasted, the guy that did the stripping said it was the most thoroughly coated/primed car he had ever seen from the factory. I have bought a few more 66-67 parts cars over the years that were quite the same. I don't know what happened to the factory metal prep after that because we all know how well cars like E-bodies held up rust wise. If you so much as breathed on them, they started to rust away.
MB
Posted By: AZ-Nick
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 10:51 PM
Quote:
I've already been down that road.Like I said,money means nothing,he buys a new Toyota pickup every other year.No interest in any other vehicles.There is really nothing to motivate him.Basicly,he has everything he wants/needs.I stay in touch but that is about all I can do.
Problem you have is you are not thinking straight, forget about taking him a car or helping him clean and store what he has, you need to bring him a Lady.....
A nice Lady 
over and over and over, have her bake some cookies for him and bring 5 cases of beer and when he is almost comatose ask him then to buy it!
Posted By: NV69B7RR
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/02/10 11:03 PM
He's got a point there, especially isnce the guy's single!
Posted By: modelmakerinc
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/03/10 03:12 AM
I would steal it. and give it to someone who would restore it.
Posted By: MY340
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/03/10 05:06 PM
Cool car!
I remember back around 2001/2002 there was an original 1966 Dodge Coronet 426/auto driver quality car for sale by a dealer. It was pale yellow exterior/black top and interior for $24000.00
Boy did I wish I had the money for that one.
Posted By: RUNCHARGER
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/03/10 06:01 PM
I don't think a driver, 2 door post, 66 hemi car is worth much more than $24k right now.
Sheldon
Posted By: indy dart
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/03/10 09:51 PM
Quote:
I don't think a driver, 2 door post, 66 hemi car is worth much more than $24k right now.
Sheldon
Not sure but I think the first car mentioned has brought more than that (twice) in the last 48 hours. Twice meaning two different new owners.
Posted By: I go fast
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/04/10 01:58 AM
Quote:
I don't think a driver, 2 door post, 66 hemi car is worth much more than $24k right now.
Sheldon
With total production of only 39 cars,I think you are way off.
Posted By: RUNCHARGER
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/04/10 02:51 AM
I own a 66 Hemi Coronet. I know what they bring.
Sheldon
Sheldon, all due respect, I'd consider a 66 Coronet 2 door sedan 4 speed car a bit more desirable/valuable than a 66 Coronet hardtop, not miles appart, but there's a gap.
Posted By: AZ-Nick
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/04/10 03:19 AM
Quote:
Sheldon, all due respect, I'd consider a 66 Coronet 2 door sedan 4 speed car a bit more desirable/valuable than a 66 Coronet hardtop, not miles appart, but there's a gap.
Scott - I could never understand this way of thinking, that a sedan is more valuable than a hardtop, numbers are a different animal and I can see that but if there is a post the price needs to go up!!!! 
I know everyone is different and I am the same, I would rather have a Hardtop but that is preference but to charge more for a sedan
Nick,
Well it goes beyond the rarity factor, I think they just take the basic "Grandma car with a huge engine" to the extreme, ugly, crude, and fast! The hard tops are sexier looking (if you can even call a 66-67 B-body "sexy"?) but they are heavier and not as rigid as a sedan.
Personally I'd prefer a 66-67 Sedan over a hard top (Dodge or Plymouth) but my opinion aside, I have owned and sold a fair number of each, the sedans have always garnered more interest, sold the fastest, and brought the best money. I've also followed the sales of both for a good many years because I like 66-67 B-body cars allot, based on my observations what I experienced seems to be the "norm". Your opinions (and selling results) may vary.
Posted By: ogopogo
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/04/10 05:56 AM
I dont agree that a sedan is worth more but for sure a 4 -speed car is worth a ton more,maybe the difference between being able to sell or not.
Posted By: RUNCHARGER
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/04/10 07:15 AM
I agree the 4 speeds are more popular. Which is strange because they have a terrible shifter in them compared to 69 and later.
Sheldon
Posted By: 1_WILD_RT
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/04/10 07:29 AM
Quote:
I agree the 4 speeds are more popular. Which is strange because they have a terrible shifter in them compared to 69 and later.
Sheldon
If I owned one the only part of the original shifter would be the chrome handle above the boot... Below the boot would be a Hurst mechanism...
Posted By: GTX MATT
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/04/10 12:33 PM
Although I'd say Sheldon's price is on the low side, I'd say its much more realistic than alot of whats out there advertised. When you consider that when the market was up a very nice '66 Hemi B body was only worth around 50 to 60 K (im going by what I saw cars sell for, not that im an expert but this is what I saw) and then consider where the economy is now, 24K isnt crazy.
I think the Coupe vs Hardtop debate really depends on your era of thinking. 30 years ago when Hemi cars were around on the street if the average guy went to go look at a pillared coupe he would go "Ewwwww!" They dont look as attractive compared to a sedan. To top it off its a '66 Dodge, which I think is the least desirable because compared to a '67 Dodge or Plymouth, and the much more attractive '66 Plymouth, its ugly. I like them, I think they're cleanly styled, but out of '66 and '67 B bodies, I think most people would agree with me that a '66 Dodge is the least attractive because of the way it looks from the front (I love all '66 and '67s though).
So, if you think rarer, more race oriented, no frills, and sturdier construction is better you'd want the coupe. If you prefer looks over function then you'd want the sedan. To me the value is about the same, but im not the buyer so my opinion is out.
I saw Sheldon's car up for sale when the market was still solid and I thought it was a really clean car for a great price, but it didn't sell as far as I know. I know it was the cheapest, non project Hemi car for sale and that there were A12, V Code, and other Hemi cars that were complete projects for sale for more. You probably couldn't have even cloned a Hemi car for what he was asking.
This is an awesome find though. As the adage goes a car is worth what someone will pay for it. Whatever the buyer paid he thought was a good price, so he got his money's worth. If hes going to drive it around unrestored that would be tops. Nothing is cooler than a real deal Hemi car with battle scars.
Posted By: 1_WILD_RT
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/06/10 05:59 AM
This has been a very helpful thread!!!
Yes it has!
Thanks to 1 Wild RT another WL21H 1966 Hemi Coronet that I have known about for over 25 years (the one on the rotisserie pics posted earlier on this thread) will be reunited with it's original Broadcast Sheet!
Posted By: Anonymous
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/06/10 06:13 AM
Quote:
I dont agree that a sedan is worth more
With the early B bodies this is true more often than not.
'63 Dodge 330/440 Sedans are more desirable than the 440/Polara hardtops.
Posted By: 1_WILD_RT
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/06/10 06:21 AM
Quote:
Yes it has!
Thanks to 1 Wild RT another WL21H 1966 Hemi Coronet that I have known about for over 25 years (the one on the rotisserie pics posted earlier on this thread) will be reunited with it's original Broadcast Sheet!
As you know Scott I'm glad we could make it happen.. You posted the right picture & enough of the story to connect the dots & that has my friend ready to turn loose of his memento of the Hemicar he once owned... Everyone's happy..
Posted By: mickm
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/06/10 05:05 PM
Quote:
Quote:
Yes it has!
Thanks to 1 Wild RT another WL21H 1966 Hemi Coronet that I have known about for over 25 years (the one on the rotisserie pics posted earlier on this thread) will be reunited with it's original Broadcast Sheet!
As you know Scott I'm glad we could make it happen.. You posted the right picture & enough of the story to connect the dots & that has my friend ready to turn loose of his memento of the Hemicar he once owned... Everyone's happy..
jeez... i missed all this, when in the thread did this happen???
Posted By: 1_WILD_RT
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/06/10 05:19 PM
Quote:
jeez... i missed all this, when in the thread did this happen???
On page two Scott posted
"The car that's on the rotiserie in primer in my earlier posts on this thread is another one of the 19 you mentioned, it was light blue metallic with a blue interior, it's from Concord California, I've known the car since about 1985."
My friend sold his Blue/Blue 66 Hemi Coronet around that time frame to a guy out of the Concord area... The guy telling a story about how he's always wanted one & would never sell it.. A week later my friend calls him to tell him he found the build sheet & gets told "Oh I already sold it..."
Anyway I PMed Scott & got the VIN of the car he knew of & it matched...
The first pics I posted of the SO number stampings are of a car I once (almost owned) 20 plus years ago that was located down in Clayton, California, by total fluke the current owner of the car (whom is having it restored now and lives in Fairfield, CA) contacted me looking for parts, some restoration advice, and to have his car verified. After we chatted a while I realized he now owned the same car I had missed out on buying way back in the 80's. He never had a Broadcast Sheet, only the fender tag.
Flash forward:
Wild_RT (who lives in the same vacinity as the car is from) recognized the VIN on the car I posted as being one was once owned by one of his current friends, he owned it even before I knew of it back in the 80's, he still had the Broadcast Sheet! So, Wild_RT and myself hooked up our friends and now the sheet will be reunited with the car again. Small world eh?
Here's the car in question back in the day when Wild's friend owned it.
Front
Posted By: 52savoy
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/06/10 05:50 PM
WOW...what a find!
You still never said how it was found.. That alone has to be a pretty cool story.
A buddy of mine bought a new '66 HEMI Coronet(red) coupe. It was raced as "Miss Bee". I'm trying to get pictures of the car.
Posted By: Race&Resto
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/07/10 01:01 AM
Awesome thread, there's something about 66-67 Dodge & Plymouth sedan's that just look nasty, especially old race cars with decals all over them!!!
Posted By: RUNCHARGER
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/09/10 01:26 AM
I know tastes are individual of course. But for my money the neatest 67 Hemi car is a 67 GTX and the neatest 66 Hemicar is the 66 Coronet 500. The 66 Hemicars are currently very undervalued especially when you look at their value versus say a common garden variety Mustang or 396 Chevelle. I think this will change in the future.
I had wanted to get rid of my 66 Hemicar to get something more mainstream but the longer I own it the more I appreciate it's purity. No phony scoops, no phony stripes, no phony exhaust tips, no fancy chrome wheels, just pure unadultered racercar performance in a car you bought out of a showroom 44 years ago. The 66's just appeal to a different crowd than Cuda's and dukey Chargers do.
Sheldon
Posted By: GTX MATT
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/09/10 06:38 AM
Quote:
I know tastes are individual of course. But for my money the neatest 67 Hemi car is a 67 GTX and the neatest 66 Hemicar is the 66 Coronet 500. The 66 Hemicars are currently very undervalued especially when you look at their value versus say a common garden variety Mustang or 396 Chevelle. I think this will change in the future.
I had wanted to get rid of my 66 Hemicar to get something more mainstream but the longer I own it the more I appreciate it's purity. No phony scoops, no phony stripes, no phony exhaust tips, no fancy chrome wheels, just pure unadultered racercar performance in a car you bought out of a showroom 44 years ago. The 66's just appeal to a different crowd than Cuda's and dukey Chargers do.
Sheldon
Thats what draws me to a '66. Although im a Plymouth guy, my dreamcar is a '66 Hemi Belvedere or Satellite, I'll take either. I love the fact that you really have no idea what is under the hood if you take the badges off. No B.S. its all about GO.
Quote:
but the longer I own it the more I appreciate it's purity. No phony scoops, no phony stripes, no phony exhaust tips, no fancy chrome wheels, just pure unadultered racercar performance in a car you bought out of a showroom 44 years ago.
And to take that thought one step further and order the Hemi in a Plain Jane 2 Door Sedan is why I prefer them over hard tops, as simple and basic a package as you could get a Hemi in.
Posted By: Rtron
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/09/10 07:05 PM
are those round turn signal markers on the bottom of front fenders and quarters?(on the white '66)
AWESOME find by the way!
Posted By: 1_WILD_RT
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/09/10 07:09 PM
Quote:
are those round turn signal markers on the bottom of front fenders and quarters?(on the white '66)
AWESOME find by the way!
As mentioned earlier those are 68 marker lights that were added...
And yes it is a very awesome find...
Posted By: Race&Resto
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/15/10 08:20 PM
So who's 66 426 Hemi Coronet 2 door sedan is this from SoCal, it look's really good!
Is this the same car that was mentioned earlier that was being restored?
http://www.hemmings.com/classifieds/dealer/dodge/coronet/898589.html
Race&resto,
Nope that's a different car, other than the 4 speed, wrong engine color, and other non original items like the Pistol Grip shifter it looks identical though!
Posted By: Commando1
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/15/10 10:23 PM
Ever hear the old expression:
"Only 1000 were made.
Only 2000 are left..."?
Commando,
Sure, but in this case all of the cars mentioned so far are originals and the known production numbers on them are pretty darn accurate.
Posted By: crowbait
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/16/10 12:45 AM
Quote:
I know tastes are individual of course. But for my money the neatest 67 Hemi car is a 67 GTX and the neatest 66 Hemicar is the 66 Coronet 500. The 66 Hemicars are currently very undervalued especially when you look at their value versus say a common garden variety Mustang or 396 Chevelle. I think this will change in the future.
I had wanted to get rid of my 66 Hemicar to get something more mainstream but the longer I own it the more I appreciate it's purity. No phony scoops, no phony stripes, no phony exhaust tips, no fancy chrome wheels, just pure unadultered racercar performance in a car you bought out of a showroom 44 years ago. The 66's just appeal to a different crowd than Cuda's and dukey Chargers do.
Sheldon
Could you please not type that sort of thing on a public forum. If everybody starts thinking this way,I'll never get a 66-67 hemicar.By the way im partial to non 500 model 66 coronets.Plain,unassuming little cars.
Posted By: Commando1
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/16/10 02:20 PM
Quote:
Commando,
Sure, but in this case all of the cars mentioned so far are originals and the known production numbers on them are pretty darn accurate.
I wasn't casting aspersions on any of the cars in this thread. I KNOW they are all bonafide. I was just reflecting on all those Hemi cars that are for sale by the auction houses and the flippers that buy from them.
Posted By: 62maxwgn
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/16/10 02:58 PM
Quote:
Quote:
Commando,
Sure, but in this case all of the cars mentioned so far are originals and the known production numbers on them are pretty darn accurate.
I wasn't casting aspersions on any of the cars in this thread. I KNOW they are all bonafide. I was just reflecting on all those Hemi cars that are for sale by the auction houses and the flippers that buy from them.
They are not flippers,they are entrepreneurs.
Posted By: RUNCHARGER
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/16/10 04:51 PM
I was going to sell my 66 Hemi 500, now I am considering adding a 66 Hemi Satellite or a 66 Hemi Charger to the fleet, both local to me. I guess there's no way out now.
Sheldon
Sheldon, if that 66 Plymouth you are looking to buy happens to be this one BACK OFF IT'S MINE!
This is the very first Hemi car I ever set eyes on when I was 16 years old (not one just like it, the ACTUAL CAR!). It's still in exactly the same condition as the day I first saw it, it's from Vancouver, WA but now lives in Kelowna B.C. Someday I'd like to own it.
Posted By: RUNCHARGER
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 01/16/10 07:54 PM
Scott: That is a nice car. I'm looking at a different one and also thinking about an original pink (mauve?) Hemi Charger as well.
Sheldon
Sounds nice Sheldon, are either of them stick cars?
Posted By: indy dart
Re: 1966 hemi coronet decoder - 04/09/10 03:01 PM
This car is the one I mentioned to be for sale at Mecum on Saturday in the earlier post. the values were discussed about these post cars so It will be interesting.