Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Data Plate worn, not readable

[SFPADGETT]

Is there a way to get the ESN (engine serial number) for ordering parts when the Data Plate on the timing cover is worn (I bought two used trucks, prior heavy pressure washing appears to have washed away the info) one 95 (3500) and one early 98 12v (2500). Both trucks run well, just need for future repair needs. Both have the P7100 pumps, the trucks are stock and used daily

 

[LandShark]

Try getting a good digital camera in there and take a bunch of pictures. Try with and without flash and with a light source. Then blow them up on your computer. You will likely get one that is readable. This has worked for me on several projects where I can't read the small type or get a magnifier in position.

 

[SFPADGETT]

Thanks for the great idea, however the digital pictures didnt work. Any other ideas?

 

[SFPADGETT]

Shadrach came to my rescue and was able to get me the ESN's. Many thanks to all who have suggested ideas.



Here is my suggestion--If you havent written down your ESN, go ahead and do so now while you can read it, you never know when you might need it and then it might be hard to retrieve.

 

[Missouri Mule]

You mite be able to get engine no. by taking your vin no. to a Dodge Dealer or giving us the type of trans in each truck (or stock hp rating) then someone can give you the CPL no ( which mite help you out).

 

[Shadrach]

In the past Cummins put a lot of emphasis on the CPL ( Control Parts Listing ) number. Basically it just tells the horsepower parts ( pistons, cam, head, turbo etc ) and is mostly for emission purposes. From experience we know that a 96. 5 with a 5 speed is a CPL 2023 and that a 97 and 98 12v with a 5 sp is a 2175. Both of these are 215 hp. Without trying to start an argument , IMHO, from a performance point of view these 2 are the best of all the 5. 9s that came in a Dodge. All due respect to the 1st gen boys. The ESN ( Engine Serial Numbers ) tells all the options the engine was built with and is more important when ordering parts from Cummins. The Dodge people like the VIN ( Vehicle Identification Number ).

End of lesson. Shadrach