Hello,
I am looking for information about the VIN and engine numbers for my 1941 Super Coupe.

My problem is that the car has a California title where the engine number is the identification number on the title.

Somewhere along the line the engine block was replaced.
The VIN on the title is the correct engine number beginning with the digit 5 for 50 series.
The number on the engine block starts with the digit 4, hence it is an engine originally mounted in a Special series 40.( And it is in the correct number series for 1941).

Is it possible to link the original engine number to the chassis plate number on the firewall or the other way around?

If so, it would clearly solve my problem.

Thank you

Tor Johansson
BCA # 6824

Dear Tor:
Post the numbers on the title, the existing engine, and the one from the frame number plate and let me see if I can help. If you want to send them to me as a PM, that's ok.
Your problem is relatively common with Buicks, and covers the point I keep making about "Use the frame number on the title !!!!"
Regards Dave Corbin

Dave, do the '41s have frame number plates? Mine didn't when I took it apart and I couldn't find any numbers stamped on it anywhere. The only real identifier I found was this:



Interesting that the 60 was crossed out and replaced with 70, just like a part might be identified at a swap meet. It certainly doesn't look factory, but who knows? Although my car seems to have been hit pretty hard in the driver's side rear fender area, I'm pretty sure the frame is original. But along with the lack of stamped numbers or number tags, this marking makes me wonder. What are your thoughts?

Dear Matt:
ALL Buicks have frame numbers, otherwise the dealers don't know what to service. On 1941-42's, there's a little plate on top of the right frame rail about 3/4 inch wide and 2 1/2 inches long. HOWEVER, it is mounted behind that big oblong battery box and is really tough to see. You have to have a strong flashlight and a good fender cover. First digit tells you where the car was made, balance of the number is the actual frame number. If you post it or send me a PM, I'll decode it for you.
Regards, Dave Corbin

Is it an attached tag or stamped into the frame? My car had no tag at all on the frame, and no sign of any mounting holes for it. The battery tray was removed, so that area is visible. If it was stamped into the frame, it's possible that it is there and I just didn't see it. But I've been looking at the bare frame for a long time (too long!) haven't noticed anything. I'll check again this weekend. I'd like to see what the numbers mean if they're there.