We could do a little investigation on our own here. Doarn's CVZ-18 and my CVZ18 are the same production year. Could we compare the two HIN numbers and see if their would be any relivance? Maybe it would also help to have a HIN for a couple 1978 CVX-18 to compare to also since the haul designs are relatively the same.
Here is the HIN for my '78 CVX 18 GCV10480M78H Color is Silver and OMC outdrive
'80 CVX 18 GCV16381M89F Color is Champagne w/ beige and Mercruiser outdrive
Let's assume there is a method to the Hin # madness and that basic info is contained in the Hin, organized similar to Vin #'s on your auto.
We know that "GCV" indicates Glastron Carlson built in Anaheim,Ca.
Let's assume the next series of numbers represents the consecutive unit or build number, for the '78 that is 10480, for the '80 it's 16381.
The next segment is 'M'. This could designate the hull design as both boats are CVX 18's and both have the 'M' in common. I suspect
hull design because other CVX's, built in Anaheim , listed in this thread have the 'M'.
That leaves a combination of 2 numbers and a letter. These could indicate outdrive and engine combination.
This method would give the factory or dealer basic info that could identify the boat for any warranty issues.
What do you guys think. Am I on the right track or just blowing smoke.
'78 CVX18
'80 CVX 18
John, I think you are on to something, OK let's put the three 78' HINs we have side by side Doran's, mine and John's.
1978 CVZ-18. GCV09123M78B. Mine Option factory ski pole mount
1978 CVZ-18. GCV10465M78H. Doran. Standard factory engine cover
1978 CVX-18. GCV10480M78H. John Standard factory engine cover
1980 CVX-18. GCV16381M80F. John. Option factory ski pole mount
OK let's bread this down
First three digits
GCV = Production plant designation
Digits 4 and 5
I am thinking accessory option code
10 09 16
We have two with the same designation of 10 same model year and same factory engine cover and both are the same production year.
We have two with different designation of 09 and 16 both have the factory ski pole comp. mount an are different model years.
Digits 6 7 8
I am thinking production sequence, break it down as follows
My CVZ is a B production which means it is an early production hence explains the numbers 123
Doran's CVZ and John's CVX are both H production which is towards the end of production for the model years of 1978. Which would explain why their 6th 7th and 8th digits are so close 465 and 480.
9th digit
The letter M = CV/18' bottom hull mold
All four HINs have the M designation and all four are CV hull designs
Digits 10 11
We know these are year
Digit 12
We know this is production month
This is my opinion on the meaning of our HINs. Thanks John for putting your two out there they are a big help.