Early vs Late 1969 C3?

I'm finding references to early and late 1969 C3's when I look at steering columns.  (I'm thinking of switching to a tilt/telescope model)  How do I determine if mine is early or late model?

What's the difference in the reference? Tilt/Tel vs straight?

[QUOTE=lukesvette]What's the difference in the reference? Tilt/Tel vs straight?[/QUOTE]

By Tilt/Tel I mean a column that allows tilting or telescoping.  Straight is one that doesn't.

The build date is found on the plate on the drivers side door on the front jam..hopefully it is still there..it's wired different between the two..I have a Dec 7 1969..which I have found is really a 70 in all parts..take a pic of it and post it..if you can't figure it out..
Rich

'69 was an extended model year due to a GM strike so it can be difficult to determine early vs. late simply by build date, unless it's a very early or late date.  My '69 is a Feb. 20 '69 build date and in most model years might be a later date, in this case it's an early date.

Check you TRIM TAG for the build date, first. As Bruce points out, there were MANY running changes made during any model year, but especially the early cars. There are rarely any specific VIN breaks, or date, for most running changes.

Thanks guys.  My trim tag says L01 which I presume is July 1st, 1969?  Making it late '69 or hard to tell.  And here I thought L01 was the designation for the 300HP engine!

-Jim

Well, in a normal production year, a July build would be considered "late", but, since the '69 production run went all the way to December, certain aspects of the vehicle could be considered "early", even at that point. By July, they would have already had parts on hand to begin the '70 model year builds, so some of those parts might well have made it on to the cars at that point. Once DeLorean decided to extend the run into Dec., all bets were off. From the engineering standpoint, if the part would fit, and function properly, it would be ok to use.
Is there anything specific you are trying to determine, as far as what part(s) you might need?

Since you are only talking about a steering column switch, that is the only thing to check.  Look at the connector in your car, and get a column with one that matches.  We stock and adapter that lets you use an earlier switch in a layer car, so maybe someone makes one the other way around.

Larry

Thanks all.  Actually two projects now.  The steering column and t-top gaskets.  Wide price range on both.   Happy Thanksgiving to all!!