32 serial number question

qmdv

qmdv

Well-known member
I have had a lot of 32 ford stuff for at least 40 years. I can just barely make out the frame number. It starts with AB50214xx. The xx represents the last two that could go a couple of different ways. I used to have an old pink slip for this but I am darned if I can find it.

Is there any way to check to see if this number plus variations of the last two digits is in use.

This Ford Barn thread was helpful. http://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3918

This tells me that the frame was originally a Model "B". It is getting a 59AB in it though

Tim
 
I have not tried any of the methods to "pull out" frame numbers, but several have been suggested over the years. Even if the numbers are completely gone you should still be able to determine what they were because the metal beneath the original stamping was disturbed and that disturbance is still in the metal. Might do a search on the Barn and HAMB to get some details. I think it involves use of different acid combinations if I remember correctly and maybe one using an electric current. If we are talking car frames, the number should be in three locations. Are any of the other locations easier to read or is this a frame with the body still attached?
 
The body is off the frame. The only location is on top left rail just aft of the fire wall.

Tim
 
One method I use is to wire brush the area hard and rub cornstarch over the numbers, leaving the residue in the number recesses. I've been able to read several frames using this method.
 
I have found that Evaporust (Harbor Freight stocks it) lives up to its claim of not damaging the base steel wile removing rust. I would build a little wall of modeling clay around the serial and put a pool of Evaporust over it. Once it is as clean as possible, hold a powerful flashlight at all sorts of angles while studying what's there...each angle can clarify a little bit of the overall picture.
Also study the rest of the rail with a powerful light...if you can find any bit of the numbers, you know where to apply the rust stuff, and either might clarify the part you really need.
 
Krylon32 said:
One method I use is to wire brush the area hard and rub cornstarch over the numbers, leaving the residue in the number recesses. I've been able to read several frames using this method.
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Definitely do not use a wire brush, as the bristles blend the numbers into the surrounding metal.
 
ford38v8 said:
Definitely do not use a wire brush, as the bristles blend the numbers into the surrounding metal.
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I've gotta agree with Alan. Depending on how faintly the numbers were stamped to begin with, along with the amount and depth of the rust, wire brushing or wheeling can possibly turn useable numbers into a disaster. A lot of experience, wisdom and good judgement necessary if using a wire brush. DD
 
I used some fine sandpaper and some soapstone. All numbers are legible now. I was kinda looking forward to the battery charger, copper pot cleaner and acid method.

Tim
 
You can also place a white piece of paper over the number and using the side of a lead pencil, go over the number and darken the paper. This will transfer the number to the paper.
 
Took a pic of the frame numbers and sent it to a professional registration person. They said works for them. My question is are the stars at each end part of the official number and should it be on the title.

Tim
 
Unless some state is different, I have never seen them used. The stars were there to indicate the starting and stopping locations and to discourage attempts to modify the numbers.
 
my DMV refused the dash much less the stars. i quote" If you want a title it will be just numbers". My titles have just numbers all together. Texas.
 
Andy said:
my DMV refused the dash much less the stars. i quote" If you want a title it will be just numbers". My titles have just numbers all together. Texas.
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My guess would be that everything gets digitized and the computers don't recognize characters other than numbers and letters.
 
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