The Ford Barn - Unusual Engine Number

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Unusual Engine Number

Here in Australia, most of our engine numbers are prefixed with a CA followed by the numeric and a star at each end. I have just been given this A engine (*CAU8511*) but the number is somewhat unusual (to me anyhow) It is prefixed with CAU, This is the first I've seen with a CAU prefix. Does any one know what the significance of the U is.
I also have two other early engine blocks which have the 5 bearing cam shaft, one which has a four digit engine number in the mid 4000 and another in the 15000 range. The Four digits in this CAU motor falls between these two early engines but it is not a 5 Cam bearing motor.
Unfortunately this engine has some serious corrosion problems and may never see the light of day again.
Thank you in advance for any information

Re: Unusual Engine Number

Quote:

Originally Posted by RUNNERBUN (Post 495455)

Here in Australia, most of our engine numbers are prefixed with a CA followed by the numeric and a star at each end. I have just been given this A engine (*CAU8511*) but the number is somewhat unusual (to me anyhow) It is prefixed with CAU, This is the first I've seen with a CAU prefix. Does any one know what the significance of the U is.
I also have two other early engine blocks which have the 5 bearing cam shaft, one which has a four digit engine number in the mid 4000 and another in the 15000 range. The Four digits in this CAU motor falls between these two early engines but it is not a 5 Cam bearing motor.
Unfortunately this engine has some serious corrosion problems and may never see the light of day again.
Thank you in advance for any information

This particular engine, within the CAU Series, was produced somewhere between June 12, 1930 thru August 7, 1930.

Each "series" of engines which utilized the three letter designation, was used with numbers 1 through 10,000 for each letter combination.

So your CAU8511 is one of 10,000 made within the CAU series.

MARC/MAFCA Restoration Guidelines and Judging Standards, Area F, Page F-2, Canadian section.

Pluck

Re: Unusual Engine Number

Thanks Guys. You live and learn. (I thought I had something unusual) Looks like all I have is an anchor. I'll salvage any of the small bits I can.

Re: Unusual Engine Number

Quote:

Originally Posted by RUNNERBUN (Post 495467)

Thanks Guys. You live and learn. (I thought I had something unusual) Looks like all I have is an anchor. I'll salvage any of the small bits I can.

A little tapping with a hammer and some JB weld and it will be good as new.:D

Re: Unusual Engine Number

If that crack on the outside of the water jacket is the only one,then it could be repaired,but from a practical standpoint its best to find another block.

Re: Unusual Engine Number

Quote:

Originally Posted by columbiA (Post 495480)

If that crack on the outside of the water jacket is the only one,then it could be repaired,but from a practical standpoint its best to find another block.

There is a considerable amount of rust thru all the water passages to the extent that they are nearly non existant. If I was to try and rebuild it I think it would be a waste of good money. Much better blocks around to rebuild.
Unfortunately I think it is destined to be an anchor or a door stop.