Technical 37 Ford serial #, do they always start with *18xxxxxxx*

The serial number by the steering box is missing, the only readable serial # is by the rear crossmember. that number is *34732xx*. If that number would have started with a 5, that would work for the smaller 60hp motor, but it clearly starts with a 3. That number works for the 37 with the bigger V8 but should have the 18 to start the serial number. Was the 18 omitted in the stampings on the rear of the frame? TY for any help!

 

I don’t know, but others will.
This may be helpful…..

http://www.vanpeltsales.com/FH_web/flathead_serialnumbers.htm
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Frames have the sequence number only. 18‐ or 54- would be found on the trans pad only in my experience. My 39 was a 60, no 54 in my frame. Had a 38 std for a short time. Same/same...

 

I don't know specifically about 37, but my 33 has just a star, six digits, and a star. I also have a 34 frame that is the same. Neither have the 18- stamping ahead of the serial number, and they are for sure factory stamped that way in all three locations.

 

My 39 has the 18- on the number by the front crossmember, but only the sequence number in the other two locations under the body.

 

My 1934 Ford tudor numbers are the same as yours...

 

It's possible the 3 is an 8, just not struck fully?? Can you check the number on the trans if original??
Paul in CT

 

TY all for the replies! The original drivetrain is long gone so no numbers available there. As others have mentioned, the 18 preceding the sequence serial number was only stamped near the steering box. That makes sense. Looked at the mid frame number, which is barely legible, and it does not have the 18 either, just the sequential serial number. Hopefully the dmv will put the 18 on the title serial number.

 

http://www.vanpeltsales.com/FH_web/flathead_serialnumbers.htm

 

Somewhere I read where the prefix was omitted on the mid and rear frame stamping, just used on the front one. Maybe on FordBarn.

 

If it was a Canadian car I think the 18 was NOT used.
Paul in CT

 

Now y'all gonna make me go look again. I don't think I have 18-XXXXX on my front number, and no, I'm not pulling the body to see the others. I mean I like you folks but...

 

The prefix was SUPPOSED to be on the number beside the steering box but I have seen exceptions. The 18- prefix was very faint and hard to read on my '38, the sequential number following the prefix was more clearly stamped, and the whole number very clear on the bell of the trans case.

 

Do the titles usually include the 18 prefix?