Arch numbering

[CarlB]

I have what I believe is a 1999 S-3. I think I found the Arch motors chassis number and some other markings. The roll bar indexes on a round knob (for lack of a better term) The main hoop fits over the knob. On the passenger side looking towards the rear of the car and reading top to bottom it says AM98. In the middle of the knob is a hole, and on either side it says  J 2. At the bottom or closest to the seat is what I believe is the chassis number 4452. Am I correct about the chassis number and does anyone know what the other numbers mean?

[IamScotticus]

AM= Arch Motors

98= year of manufacture 

J2= Jig number

4452= production number.

 

I don't know if that is an annual production nbr or total count for the particular jig.

4k is big for a production within a year, Cat averages around 500 a year.  I suspect its a running count for the jig.

 

the cool thing about Arch is, with that Jig #, they can supply you perfectly fitting body panels and tube sections.  Even the rivet holes will line up.

Edited March 20, 2023 by IamScotticus

[CarlB]

Thank you - I did not know they could provide body panels. I need to look into that. I love my car, but it has been used hard. NO TRAILER QUEEN. It didn't happen to me, but I have a hole on the right side where a connecting rod took flight. 

[IamScotticus]

Yea new skin and inspection between the skin and all chassis tubes for corrosion is often a ten year requirement to keep these buggars running and pretty. must clean out the "grot trap", the space between the foot well and outter skin.