Frame number question

[PiRiM37]

Hi Folks, new owner of a restored 53 here. I am fascinated by this truck and have enjoyed researching information about it, thanks for all the great knowledge shared here.

I have a question that I have not found a reasonable answer to. The frame number on this truck does not match the data plate (uh-oh) but neither does it match any number for any year truck. It starts 2661 2***** (totalling 10 digits). Since it appears that nearly every part was available for replacement/repair I am guessing that as some point there were new frames available? If so, did they number them differently so as not to confuse them with standard serial number of the truck?

I have a title, previous registration etc. so I hope this will not become an issue at the registry but I thought if I had more information I could come prepared.

Thanks for any insight.

[MSeriesRebuild]

I seriously doubt a number would have been paid any attention if a frame ever got changed out. It is much more likely a glove box door got changed & they didn't bother to change the data plate. My suggestion is get the # off the frame rail & have a new data plate made to match the frame number. Don't mention any of these discrepancies when you apply for a title, just research the model year that matches the number on the frame rail & the new data plate. Use that info when you apply for your new title & leave it at that. You will be glad you did.

[PiRiM37]

The problem is that the title is registered as a 1953 model with a proper 53 serial number (on the dash) and the bed, equipment, etc match what you would expect for a 53 (though I know pretty much all of this could be changed/modified).

I was just hoping that someone with experience could shed a bit of light on my frame number and why it doesn't "fit in" with the rest. From what I see on this site and others, it appears that there were no 10 digit frame/serial numbers that start 2661 2..... so it seems that I cannot match it to a particular year. I was hoping something along the lines of an NOS frame might explain the descrepancy, though I have not read of this anywhere.

I do appreciate any help here, thank you for the reply.

[pfrederi]

Buy your self a half inch stamping kit. grind off the offending numbers and stamp on what ever you need.

The serial number on my frame looks like is was stamped by a guy who had a couple of drinks at lunch....

[PiRiM37]

Thanks, this was another thought I had. But part of the reason I am guessing about the possibility of a new frame is just how darn clean it is. I mean, it is really, really clean (I would post a picture but I'm not that savvy yet). It is so clean that anything I do in the area would show, and I don't want to attract negative attention. There were areas of rust on the doors and tailgate that have been attended to but the frame itself is as smooth as the hood! I have a hard time believing this frame lived the same life as the rest of the truck.

[MSeriesRebuild]

Thanks, this was another thought I had. But part of the reason I am guessing about the possibility of a new frame is just how darn clean it is. I mean, it is really, really clean (I would post a picture but I'm not that savvy yet). It is so clean that anything I do in the area would show, and I don't want to attract negative attention. There were areas of rust on the doors and tailgate that have been attended to but the frame itself is as smooth as the hood! I have a hard time believing this frame lived the same life as the rest of the truck.

What I would do in this case is lead over the existing frame numbers with body solder. Cut the repair area back down to the proper level, stamp the numbers you want in place & paint it to match the frame.

[m-11]

Since this truck was restored and it doesn't sound like you did it, what's the possiblity that the frame is off of a civy power wagon or other truck that used the same frame? Just a thought.

[Lifer]

The civvy power wagons didn't use the same frame as the M37, actually. The civilian version was longer. An M37 bed is too short for a power wagon and the mounting holes don't line up.

[Nickathome]

My opinion,...... don't give it another thought. You said you have a title, well then you are ahead of the game. I wouldn't worry myself about something that you had no control over. Enjoy the truck and who cares about serial numbers, etc.


My truck's title lists it as a 62, however when I registered it on this site, the serial fell more in line with a 1964. My thoughts on that, "I couldn't care less", the title says its a 62, then thats' what it is!. Not my fault if somebody screwed up somewhere down the line. Record keeping amongst the military was a shambles at best, so its no wonder there are discrepancies everywhere. Not worth worrying about though....

[PiRiM37]

Thanks for the answers. I suppose I would be much more concerned if the frame number specifically matched another year. If this remains indeciperable I can very easily rationalize that real world use/abuse/rebuild/repair/restoration over the past 55 years could result in just about any type of explanation.

But to my original question, does anyone know if new frames were ever available?

I have been adding some upgrades over the last few months and plan to get it registered and plated in the spring. I'll try to add pictures here on this site shortly.

Again, thanks for the suggestions.

[MSeriesRebuild]

Every piece was available back in the day, frames were like any other piece.