jaygrammarjr@gmail.com

Can anyone help me out? Just curious as to what good information I can get from looking up the Vin number? I have just recently purchased a 1971 Oldsmobile cutlass supreme convertible. I’ve already looked up the block number and it’s a 76 350.

joe_padavano

Well, for starters, that's not the VIN. It's the Fisher Body Cowl tag and there is no VIN information on it.

ST71 = Style 1971 model year
3 = Oldsmobile Division
42 = Cutlass Supreme model line
67 = Convertible
LAN = Lansing, MI assembly plant
412061 = Fisher Body sequential build number (not the VIN)

TR970 = Black bucket seat interior
61 B PNT = Sandlewood paint (61) with black (B) convertible top
05C = built third week (C) of May (05) 1971

jaygrammarjr@gmail.com

Thanks Joe! Lol I knew that was referred to as a cowl tag, not sure why I said vin number?? Here she is in current condition. Want to eventually restore 100% Not sure if it’s worth it...takes lots of time and dedication and most of all, greenbacks, mostly Franklin's.

joe_padavano

It's a nice looking car. Personally, I'd clean it up and drive the wheels off of it. There's a lot of non-stock stuff going on that will be expensive to make "correct", and frankly you'll never get that investment back. That's some creative wiring in the last photo. I'd start the cleaning up there.

Looks like a 12SI alternator swap. Be sure that wiring is correct. If you want to reinstall the A/C, consider the kit from Original Auto Air that uses the Sanden compressor. Also consider a careful inspection of what's under that resale red repaint. Good luck.

Fun71

That's a lotta red!

I agree with Joe, drive it and enjoy it as it is.

Bfg

The interior reminds me of the 1969 Apollo Concept car.

jaygrammarjr@gmail.com

Yeah guys thanks for the advice and I’m going to drive it as it is and just fix important stuff as the ac, convertible cylinders and possibly motor, small rear seal leak or modulator, little bit at a time. I love it and had two compliments just tonight! Thanks guys.