Technical Frame VIN

Looking at a 39 Ford Coupe.
Does this VIN look funny?

 

Looks like it's messed up with weld?

 

Assuming a *18 just to the left of the--, it would be a correct '39 V8 serial...but looks like the guy on the assembly line was drunk, and then someone with welder and grinder added some trouble...

 

I agree with Bruce. Here is the location to find serial numbers: http://www.vanpeltsales.com/FH_web/flathead_serialnumbers.htm
Does the vehicle still have the original transmisson? The same number should be stamped into the transmission case but the DMV doesn't like to use it since it is easy to change transmissions. Although they wouldn't want to use the number from the transmission it might help convince them that they are reading the number on the frame correctly. Worst case the number appears two more places (see the bottom of the page on the site I referenced) under the body. Just lift the body and let them see these numbers (easier said than done).

Charlie Stephens

 

those letters, numbers, star stamped on frame are each done free hand. is that the number on the title? I see a couple of what appear to be rivet heads, no welding. off to the right of one rivet is the number 4 - more numbers there? not called VIN but, identification or serial numbers.

 

Sure looks like frame! Big rivits!!

 

Looks like 2-5 years, depending on the court and the judge.

 

Here is the link to the page that shows were the serial numbers should be stamped in the frame rail. http://www.vanpeltsales.com/FH_web/1939ford-project-teardown-13.htm

You might find them with a small mirror if there is enough room. That is what the inspectors will try to do.

 

I have never heard you could read the numbers without removing the body. Might be good to ask on fordbarn.com and earlyfordv8.org. To quote from the above reference "The locations at the middle and rear of the frame are normally covered up by the body and not visible until the body comes off."

Charlie Stephens

 

Appears that there are two different height numbers? Even though they are freehand stamped, all vin's I have seen are the same height.

 

Big Deuce is correct. Looks like the #8 and the first #3 have been redone for some reason.

 

The original "8" is there, but just a poor restamp. The "3" and possibly the "1" could also have be reinstalled because of welding or grinding, but used the wrong height stamp. The "6" font is correct.

 

Number matches title.

 

Suspicious, what else can you say. Tread lightly.