Engine Serial Number Question

[TwoCar]

Hello.

I'm rebuilding Slat Grill number 118247 with a DoD of 02/10/1942. The engine is long gone, and I planned on using a later MB engine, but dress it as a Slat grill engine. I've come across an engine to use, but my questions focus on start date as to when the "MB" was stamped on the engine's serial number pad? Didn't early Willy's just have a serial number with out the "MB"? Would my 118247 engine have an "MB" stamped on it or not? Thanks folks!

- Mike

[Michael O.]

Mike, MB engines were always stamped with the MB prefix...starting with MB 100001.

[TwoCar]

Thanks Michael! I thought that I read somewhere that the "MB" prefix was omitted until a certain time, but hey...this is good news for me!

Second question...what is an acceptable serial number range for my 118247 Slat Grill?

Thanks!

- Mike

[Michael O.]

The engine vs serial number spread was very close during Feb ‘42. I would estimate that if you found an MB engine with a SN about 500-700 numbers higher than your frame number you’re doing OK.

Others who are better versed in MB’s will hopefully chime in.

BTW....I’m looking for an MB block in the low 112XXX range!

[TwoCar]

Thank you Michael! Very helpful information! I'll keep an eye open for one in the low 112XXX range.

Carry on!
- Mike

[rhholder]

i realize i am a little late to the dance as i just only recently joined. But did want to say, my MB Slat is also DOD 02/10/1942. Serial number is 117644. The serial number on my engine is MB 118787.

[scubagavin]

Popping in to add some more information for reference.

I have Canadian Slat 118 916. Date of Delivery Feb 12. 1942; Canadian Slats had the engine serial number on the data plate: Engine when delivered : 119 844

I have engine 118 916 going into it it; Interesting to learn that my replacement engine probable went into another jeep 2 days prior to mine being built

[Michael O.]

i realize i am a little late to the dance as i just only recently joined. But did want to say, my MB Slat is also DOD 02/10/1942. Serial number is 117644. The serial number on my engine is MB 118787.

Just going off the serial number spread I’d say that you have the original motor in your SG. Photos of the serial number pad on the engine would confirm if it’s a factory stamping. Also, if you could provide the casting date from the block...it precedes the casting number on the lower right side.

[rhholder]

i realize i am a little late to the dance as i just only recently joined. But did want to say, my MB Slat is also DOD 02/10/1942. Serial number is 117644. The serial number on my engine is MB 118787.

Just going off the serial number spread I’d say that you have the original motor in your SG. Photos of the serial number pad on the engine would confirm if it’s a factory stamping. Also, if you could provide the casting date from the block...it precedes the casting number on the lower right side.

Michael, here are pics of both. the serial number is a little hard to read, but you can see it. is the casting number 1-22 as in January 22?

http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/50 ... 523_1_.JPG
http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/50 ... 526_1_.JPG

[rhholder]

http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/50 ... 523_1_.JPG
http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/showpho ... er&cat=500

[Michael O.]

Yes, fhe casting date is 1-22 and going by the serial number your engine was cast on Jan 22, 1942. There will be a machining date stamped on the oil pan surface near the rear bearing retainer...but you'd have to remove the oil pan to see it.