Can I tell a real R/T from a clone by the vin number...........

[bandit67]

Hi Guys, a noob here about to go look at some 68 Chargers. Was told one is an original R/T, is there a number or letter in the vin that is only for R/ts. Also , if the fender tag is available is there some way there that will verify a real vrs a clone...........thanks........ps, what is the value difference in say a regular 68 vrs a 68 R/t if both cars are in a close comparable state.........thanks for your input..........J

[694spdRT]

The Vin# will start out as XS29 for an R/T vs XP29 on a standard Charger. The 5th digit will also either be an "L" for 440 or "J" for Hemi with an R/T.

The 1968 Vin# will not match the body stampings on the car. You would need a fender tag in order to do that. There is a order number on the fender tag that should match the radiator support and trunk lip #'s.

The value is always based on condition and options. I would say at least a 50% premium for a 440 R/T over a 383 Charger and way more than that if it is an original Hemi car.

[bandit67]

Thanks, knowledge is invaluable.........many thanks........j

[Charger Steve]

The non R/T car (xp29) 5th. didgit will be.... F= 318, G=383 2bbl., H= 383 4bbl.

[ChargersETC..ETC..]

Don't foget the " H" exhaust  pipes, heavyer leaf springs, should be the big 26 inch radiator opening ,R/T emblem only ! fits on the tailpanel the holes won't match up for the standard emblem. The assembly plant on vin had better match the trunk assembly plant.Other then that heavyier brakes. That's about all I know of. I got that info from the members here Thanks
I heard no woodgrain dash in 1968
XS in vin is key  check eng,trans,broadcast sheet and fender tag to confirm #'s match.

[y3chargerrt]

Not all R/T's have the 26" radiator.

[ChargersETC..ETC..]

I didn't know about the small radiator opening available in a R/T but it awnsers lots of questions I've had Thanks

[MM1R/T]

26" rad came with the max cooling package. Standard on R/T 4 speed and A/C cars. I believe that max cooling was also available as a stand alone option.

[69_500]

Right some of the R/T's, as well as 500's and Daytona (all with 440's) could have had the 22" radiator as well.

The things to look for are definately the VIN's. XS is the only part you even need look at. Now granted the fact of it having an "L" or a "J" means a lot too, but either way its an R/T. Now if you happen to see a XX you make sure to let me know.

[Just 6T9 CHGR]

Wow!  back from the grave!

[hemigeno]

26" rad came with the max cooling package. Standard on R/T 4 speed and A/C cars. I believe that max cooling was also available as a stand alone option.

When you say max cooling package, there are some distinctions still to be made.  A 440 4-speed car will have a 26" radiator, but a 2-core 055 radiator and not the 3-core 054 variety.  Is that still considered a Maximum Cooling package?  Or, is it considered a Medium Cooling package?  You be the judge...

Lots of good radiator-oriented discussions in this thread:

http://www.dodgecharger.com/forum/index.php/topic,2562.0/all.html

Wow! back from the grave!

No doubt!

[MM1R/T]

055 and 054 are 1969 numbers. For 1968 all 26" rads in 440 cars were 047. Hemi's had 048.