Decoding date codes

[Chargerguy74]

I'm not sure on the way to decode the cast dots in the boxes system of date codes? Can anyone explain this to me? I'm sure I have the info in one of my books, but now that i need it I can't find it.

[Chargerguy74]

ok, found the info

[gtx6970]

It's called a date clock
in the center is the last 2 digits of the year it was cast
surrounding the center is a series of 12 blocks , count the number of blocks with dots in the them gives you the month it was cast.

Example  - 4 blocks with dots in them and a 68 in the center is april of 1968

I've also been told to add up the total  number of dots  gives you the week, But I can't verify this info 100%
Typically starters and alternators are dated this way.
I also know  Alternators also have a stamped in assembly date near the pivot bolt hole, not sure about starters just yet

[Chargerguy74]

I kind of figured they were months when I saw there were 12 boxes, usually 3 dots in each box?