Neighbor just received (free!) a 1958 F-100. We towed it home and checked the VIN. VIN: F10C8R30355. I've searched enough of the archives to decode most of VIN and such, but two questions remain:

1) Tag in glovebox door has CLR N stamped in it. I assume this is the color code, but what does "N" stand for?

2) The 292 that's in it, is actually only partially in it. A previous owner tore the heads and top of the motor off and left them in the cab for many years. I always wonder how this happens...but anyway - The hood's been closed, and we're in the desert, so there may be a chance the original motor can be rebuilt. My question is, in 1958, was there such a thing as a "numbers matching truck"? Is there a serial number stamped on the engine block that matches a serial number stamped on the frame? If so, can you tell me where to scrape the grime away and look for both?

Thanks much!
Glenn

 

I believe the "C" in the VIN number indicates a 292 V8.

Post your VIN and data plate info in the "57-60 Registry" thread and they'll decode everything for you.

 

I don't see an "N" color code - can you post a photo of the rating plate so we can see the entry?

As far as serial number matched engines, that didn't start until some time later. You can put just about any 292 in the truck and nobody could tell that it wasn't the original engine.

 

Thanks George - that's a big help given the current condition of the engine. Do you happen to know what colors the block/intake/air cleaner etc were on that motor originally? I see yours has alot of bright yellow involved.

I'll post the rest in the registry post. The "N" I'm referring to isn't part of the VIN. It's down below the VIN with the other numbers engraved.

Thanks again,
Glenn