VIN locations '53 Commander

[Deanna]

First timer here, just registered. Am being gifted a '53 Commander from my father which was purchased without an ownership (lost over the years). We have located the VIN plate on the drivers door post, but it is so heavily painted you cannot see numbers.

I spoke with Studebaker Museum and learned, unfortunately, that they cannot locate the VIN in archives by cross referencing the body tag number.

Does anyone know where else on the car the VIN could be stamped? Read about the rear frame cross member on the '56 in the other forum. Or, if the plate can be safely cleaned?

Really would like to get the paperwork done for this vehicle soon.

Thanks

Deanna

[studegary]

What you are referring to as a VIN is the serial number (plate on the A-pillar) that may have been used as the VIN. Many 1953 models used the engine number as the VIN.

The serial number plate had the number stamped into it. All of the printed material on the S/N plate may be destroyed, but the serial number itself was stamped into the plate. You should be able to read that plate. Do not sand the plate. Use some thinner or other paint remover to remove enough paint to read the stamped number. You can get a new decal to replace the printed material on the S/N plate.

Nice car that you got and welcome to the Forum. Please join SDC (from this site). You will get your money's worth and then some.

Edit: The S/N was lightly stamped on the flange of the rear crossmember. 99% of the time it is no longer legible after 57 years, especially with any amount of rust.

Gary L.
Wappinger, NY

SDC member since 1968
Studebaker enthusiast much longer

[Deanna]

Thanks so much for the information. Car is cute

Deanna