Big truck question

[JBOYLE]

At this weekend's Russo & Steele auction in Scottsdale there was a 1949 Studebaker grain truck.
It's labeled A 2R16, VIN: 3R18478.

Shouldn't the model and VIN match?

Also, is it a one ton?


Neat story, spent its life from 1949 to 2005 on a Kansas farm. All original, in very nice shape...with the expected wear and paint scratches.
Thanks

[Roscomacaw]

No, this would be a ton and a half. That said, the designation and the VIN do not match, as you've observed. A 3R would be a '54 truck whereas a 2R would be a '49 thru '53 truck.

[Skip Lackie]

As Bob noted, a 2R16 would be a 1.5 ton. One tons would be 2R14 or 2R15. The 3R18478 is almost certainly the engine number. The 226 ci Commander 6 engine numbers started with a 3R prefix. Another case of Stude using the same letter combinations for two different things, sowing confusion in succeeding generations.

Some states used the engine number for registration purposes until the mid-50s.

[JBOYLE]

Many thanks for your insights....John

[Sdude]

My friend Greg Glubka bought that truck. He said it will be here this week. I'll get some pictures and recruit him.

[JBOYLE]

My friend Greg Glubka bought that truck. He said it will be here this week. I'll get some pictures and recruit him.

What are his plans for it?
I really loved the truck's honesty.....I hoped it went to a good home.