Reo truck year info needed

[benjamin j]

Trying to figure out year from this tag . I am guessing 55 or 56 anybody know how to decode this tag?

[8E45E]

On a big rig, the best way is to look for the date codes on the individual components such as the wheels, wiper motor, radiator, etc.  (Check the lock rings on the split rims, probably the most easily accessed.) Believe or not, big rigs were given a year when the were sold, not when they were made until the FTC stepped in and put a stop to that practice.  I'm guessing it to be a 1953.

 

Craig

[58L-Y8]

BenjaminJ: 

In a 1953 Chilton's Motor Age manual, the REO Model F22 for 1951-1952, the Model L is listed for both 1 1/2 and 2 Ton Conventional.  For the engines in those are REO manufacture models OA292 with bore and stroke 3 7/8 X 4 1/8 and OA331 B & S 4 1/8 X 4 1/8.  Hope this helps you source a shop manual for that model.  REO's are one tough rugged truck.  Good luck with your project.

[DLynskey]

Look at the code on the window glass. On cars the month and year of certification was stamped on the glass. I assume the same is true for trucks.

 

Don

[rocketraider]

Also check with RE Olds Transportation Museum in Lansing. Not sure how much REO truck production info they have but their mission is preservation and history of Lansing-built vehicles. www.reoldsmuseum.org

 

Cool truck btw.