[Heyitstim]

I am restoring a 53 cj3a so I'm told. The vin plate is missing and frame tag is gone. The motor has been rebuilt prior to me getting it and the serial numbers are not on the water pump block. The place behind the oil filter simply has a stamped circle on the left side and a * asterrick type symbol on the right. The engine block case has the 7-18 clock stamp and the 638632 cc w4a N1 CR N2 on the side. What can you tell me about this motor?

[Tim Dolan]

the number 803 860 is on my 1952 CJ3A and it is correct. A 3A engine has heavier webbing (the casting itself) near where it mounts. The strengthened webbing covers half the hole formerly used to see the flywheel and set timing. The 3A has timing marks on the timing chain cover.

I don't know of any reference that lists all the block numbers,although one may exist.
Tip: A CJ3A has a one piece windshield and a radiator that mounts to the front grille rather than to the crossmember and support rod across the top.

Hopefully ,someone else can contribute.

[F Bill]

You need to get hold of Bob Westerman and get his book on the 3A.. He is very well versed in its idiosyncracies and can pretty well date a 3A by certain features.. He is the host of the 3A information site which you can find via google. He is also a nice guy and will probably offer to help you identify your jeep.