The Ford Barn

Rob S · 11-22-2015, 05:36 AM

Hello, new to the forum and need to get some advice on working out the originality of a 53 F100 I would like to purchase. It is a good solid body and chassis with only two small areas of rust and correct drive train for a 53.
I am confused by the paint code and transmission code. It has a Fordomatic trans which it seems has been there for a long time with no evidence of the floor being altered or clutch pedal or assy ever being there but the trans code is 3 which I believe is for a manual. The vehicle has been painted Sheridan Blue at some stage but was originally Vermillion as the inner firewall cover was not removed. The paint code is R which is Vermillion for 54 and should be Meadow Green in 53. There is no evidence of green paint anywhere.
I am yet to confirm the chassis stampings line up with the glovebox data plate, but will be doing that on my next look. Are these data plates always correct or is there some variance at times. The plate says it was built in Norfolk VA and a friend of mine bought it from Georgia where it has been sitting in a shed for 35 years . Some ideas or thoughts would be much appreciated. Thanks Rob.

James Phillips · 11-22-2015, 12:26 PM

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You are right, the code 3 means 3 speed manual. Confirm the vin number on your title matches the vin number on your frame . If you haven't already you need to get a Mid Fifty F100 parts catalog. They have new data plates if you send a copy of proof of your ownership but will change engine,trans, rear end information to reflect the changes that may have been made to your truck.

11-22-2015, 05:36 AM	#1
Rob S Junior Member Join Date: Nov 2015 Location: Queensland Australia Posts: 1	53 F100 data plate advice Hello, new to the forum and need to get some advice on working out the originality of a 53 F100 I would like to purchase. It is a good solid body and chassis with only two small areas of rust and correct drive train for a 53. I am confused by the paint code and transmission code. It has a Fordomatic trans which it seems has been there for a long time with no evidence of the floor being altered or clutch pedal or assy ever being there but the trans code is 3 which I believe is for a manual. The vehicle has been painted Sheridan Blue at some stage but was originally Vermillion as the inner firewall cover was not removed. The paint code is R which is Vermillion for 54 and should be Meadow Green in 53. There is no evidence of green paint anywhere. I am yet to confirm the chassis stampings line up with the glovebox data plate, but will be doing that on my next look. Are these data plates always correct or is there some variance at times. The plate says it was built in Norfolk VA and a friend of mine bought it from Georgia where it has been sitting in a shed for 35 years . Some ideas or thoughts would be much appreciated. Thanks Rob.

11-22-2015, 12:26 PM	#2
James Phillips Junior Member Join Date: Feb 2012 Location: Hartman AR Posts: 20	Re: 53 F100 data plate advice Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements) You are right, the code 3 means 3 speed manual. Confirm the vin number on your title matches the vin number on your frame . If you haven't already you need to get a Mid Fifty F100 parts catalog. They have new data plates if you send a copy of proof of your ownership but will change engine,trans, rear end information to reflect the changes that may have been made to your truck.