48-50 ford f1 identification
#16
#17
#18
Here is my opinion on what you have.
The frame is probably a VERY early 1948, the worker stamping the number stamped it in the wrong place and used the wrong stamp set. (Human error was not a rarity back then, and record keeping was pretty lame)
I have seen one other early 48, an F4 that was stamped there and failed to stamp the engine and model info.
It's a 3 on the tree, (remote, column shift) that was not factory available until late 1950.
You mentioned that you can't read the numbers on the rating plate, you also stated "the plate on glove box is still there and looks original because of the steel rivets holding it on" as far as I know they were NOT riveted on, every one I have seen was attached with two screws. I'd suggest you remove the plate and check the back for stamp impressions.
You have not mentioned if you checked the Patent plate (nailed to the firewall passenger side) or checked the firewall/cowl for factory coding stampings.
I don't believe that you have a 1949, nor do I believe you have a 'factory' truck. It appears that you have a truck assembled from multiple trucks.
Patent plate pass side firewall
1951 Chicago Firewall stamping
Rating plate (Glovebox)
#19
When I had my cab off I did notice the number on the frame rail above the steering box was duplicated and stamped down by the rear cab mount on the top of the frame also, (two places.)
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svoldtruck
1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
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10-24-2014 12:45 PM
NiftyLittle'50
1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
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12-27-2010 12:20 PM