Re: Recent additions to the Owner Registry

Posted by BH On 2011/12/28 18:35:08

If I might add, 1602 is actually the chassis number - an Eight with an extended, 148" wheelbase.

The first two digits of this chassis number represent the 16th Series, which is synonymous with year 1938.

When the Registry Add function asks you for a Model number, this actually refers to the body style number. A chassis could serve as foundation for more than one body style.

If you enter (chassis) 1602 in the "Model/Chassis/Body Lookup" box of the site's Model Info feature and click on the "Go" button, the results page shows two body styles were offer on that chassis - either an 1190 Limo and an 1191 Sedan.

Only one body style, 1669, is listed as a "Town Car". However, it was built on the 1601 chassis - also an Eight, but with a 127" wheelbase.

The body number also appears as the first four digits of the vehicle serial number. I'd suggest checking the serial number on your car, but for 1938, it was stamped on a sticker (rather than a metal plate as used in other years) that was located on the firewall or cowl, and it's my understanding that these stickers didn't survive well. In lieu of that sticker, check other paperwork, as Mal suggests - such as title, regaistration, repair orders.

Hope this helps.