Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

I just purchased a 1939 110, VIN I282-I5760, Engine B23002A. I am told it is the original engine and I know the 'B' denoted '39, but how can I tell if the numbers 'match' as I understand Packard's numbers did not match exactly, but if they were 'close' it was likely an original engine. Can anybody help me here?? Thanks for your time to read and post an answer.

Unless you have the original delivery ticket for the car to verify exactly which engine # was in it when delivered, about all you should expect is that early vehicle-numbered cars will have an earlier engine number than later vehicles. You can also reach a judgement from the theft-proof number - a late body should have a late engine #.

I have dozens and dozens of 1939 110 data sets which bracket your VN, many from original delivery tickets. Here's some with vehicle number, motor number, and theft-proof for comparison to yours.

1282-16147 B23619A 515319
1282-16943 B24665A 515046
1282-15981 B22353A 512909
1282-15646 B22767A 507768
1282-15144 B22215A 502042

Based on these yours seems to fall into line so I'd think the chances that your car has the original engine as delivered is excellent.

As a Packard "newbie" you are probably not aware that in the type font Packard used for the vehicle and theft-proof numbers the numeral "1" appears as an "I".

G'day Chris(Packard newbie),
to PackardInfo and I invite you to include your '39 Six 4 Door Touring Sedan in the Packard Owner's Registry.

Thank you so very kindly for the comprehensive reply. I can see that in comparing the numbers ranges that you provided, mine would appear sequential. One thing I am not aware of, is the anti-theft numbers. Where are they located? I presume that is what the '5' series numbers at the end are, correct?
And no, I was not aware of the font anomaly you mentioned re Packard's 1's looking like I's.... thanks for setting me straight on that.
Best regards,
Chris Goodfellow.

"One thing I am not aware of, is the anti-theft numbers. Where are they located? I presume that is what the '5' series numbers at the end are, correct?"

The photo below is of a Theft Proof Number, usually found about the middle of the firewall(for Packards of that era) with triangles at each end.

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Newbie, welcome to Packard Info. Lots of knowledgeable folks here to help you with questions on your 1939 Packard Six. When here look through the Main Menu offerings. There is a considerable amount of information contained in the various sections that will help you know and understand your Packard.

It is interesting how Packard designated their junior 6-cylinder traditional bodied cars.

1937-39 Six (the 37s are sometimes referred to as 115Cs)

1940-41 One Ten (110)

1942 - Special Six

All adding to the romance and intrigue of our beloved Packards.

(o{}o)

Thanks to all who replied, furnishing all the invaluable info. I am amazed at the 'Packard infrastructure' out there and truly look forward to working on my car and rendering it as flawless and original as I can. Really appreciate your help.

for including your '39 Six 4 Door Touring Sedan in the Packard Owner's Registry.