Is this a real w27 pumpkin?
I can’t seem to find how to identify a true w27, I’m just looking at pictures. Trying to decide if I should make a 4 hour drive to look at this Cutlass S.

 

Did the owner tell you it was a W-27 ?
#1 the numbers you are showing are CAST into the housing, they are not stamped.
#2 This looks like it was painted and has a clear top coat.
#3 This should help you figure it out
https://www.google.com/search?client...ifferential%22

 

No they didn’t say it was a w27.
Yes the numbers are cast, my mistake.
i looked at some of the info on your link.
Was the w27 the only 12 bolt Oldsmobile produced?

 

There can be confusion over the terms 10-bolt and 12-bolt in referring to Oldsmobile Cutlass differentials of this period.

The Oldsmobile-produced differentials all have a 12-bolt cover and 10-bolt ring gear.

 

Here's a thought. Does a magnet stick to it?

 

I'll add that every single Type O axle that Olds made from 1966 to 1970 used a 12 bolt cover. Despite that, the A-body versions used TEN bolts to hold the 8.5" ring gear to the carrier. The ones used in the full size cars used TWELVE bolts to hold the 9.375" ring gear to the carrier. Neither one has anything in common with the Chevy 12 bolt axle.

 

 

I think it’s painted and has clear coat. You can actually see reflections on the paint.
Good eye brother

 

See be

From an inspector

A car that sold recently

 

This the last W-27 that I worked on.

 

The ribs are very small. It's probably a normal iron pumpkin that's been painted.

 

Thanks for the picture.
Now I know the facts.
the inspectors report I posted had 2 numbers. One for the cover and one for the carrier.

W27 cover #406785
W27 carrier #406784

if that info is anywhere on this site, I couldn’t find it. But that’s just me

 

Just get a magnet...THAT will tell you for sure. ALUMINUM is non magnetic....