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Where is the VIN tag on a 1949 Super8 supposed to be?
I have the model 2279 and paint/trim tag (4X4) on top of the cowl as well the model tag behind the heater box...
However,I have an engraved VIN tag, not an original on the cowl as well. I'm thinking that is where the original might have been.
Does anyone have a photo of an original VIN tag for the 1949?
Much appreciated,
Al Miller

When you open the hood from the drivers side, the VN tag is right there held on by 4 screws .Mine is a 48 Custom 8 so its 2252-xxxx.There is a Briggs tag on the firewall as well as a Thief proof number above the heater box <xxxxx>.

I spoke with a guy earlier today. He stated that on the 49 Super 8 the VIN number is just below the head on the drivers side.
Sure enough, I looked. That's apparently the only place on this car that has the full VIN.
Thanks, Al

There were no VIN's as we know them used back then. Believe that number on the engine you are referring to is the motor number.

Apparently there were no hard and fast registration rules then so that was the number used by many states to register the cars in those years. Other states used one of the other numbers.

One problem is if the engine is replaced by one from another vehicle, the motor number is no longer correct. Makes it interesting when the car changes hand and the new owner goes to register. States had different ways of noting a replacement engine as well. A few of the members have come across strange motor numbers on their cars. Currently without more facts, we are attributing those to a replacement engine that has been re-numbered following a states regulations.

The body number as others have mentioned is on the drivers side cowl on your car. Another number which frequently grows legs. Believe your car would have a plate like the photo. The Briggs number is on the little plate on the engine side firewall and similar format but not always exactly the same as the main body number.

The embossed "thief proof" number is the only permanent number on the car and unfortunately the one number no known factory records exist for.

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Thank you for the great information.
The title I have does state the motor number as the VIN. Yes, I can see how it would be problematic, if the car had an engine replacement. What a simple world it was in 1949!

I have to wonder... how many of these replica plates were made up with "SCHEME" spelled as "SCEME"? I would think you could get a discount.




Just Amazing.