M-38 VIN Locations Help

KHH37435 · Post by **KHH37435** » Tue Apr 09, 2013 2:39 pm

I found the VIN number on the patent plate and behind the passenger seat on the tub. Is there a matching VIN on the frame as well on M -38's?

Xamon · Post by **Xamon** » Tue Apr 09, 2013 3:46 pm

to the best of my knowledge, only if a depot or rebuilder added it.

Bretto · Post by **Bretto** » Tue Apr 09, 2013 7:37 pm

Mine has the MC# stamped on the top surface of the frame between the front bumper and grill on the left side. It's not the norm though. It should be on the dash plate also.

Post by **wesk** » Tue Apr 09, 2013 9:15 pm

I found the VIN number on the patent plate and behind the passenger seat on the tub. Is there a matching VIN on the frame as well on M -38's?

The patent plate is the plate on the front end of the right rear wheel house behind the passenger seat. The dash has a Serial Plate.

They are the only two official locations for the US built M38's serial number.
I say serial number because VIN is not applicable to pre 1976 vehicles. VIN was a Federal Government program to endow each vehicle built with a number that would not only serialize the vehicle but would offer date of manufacture, manufacturer's name and place of manufacture data.

KHH37435 · Post by **KHH37435** » Wed Apr 10, 2013 6:53 am

Thanks everyone, and thanks for the clarification Wes. I mis-spoke calling the dash plate the patent plate, and its good information regarding the distinction between VIN and serial numbers.