TextStep-by-Step Guide to Locating and Decoding Perkins Engine Serial Numbers
Finding the serial number on your Perkins engine is essential for ordering the right parts, troubleshooting issues, and keeping accurate service records. Each engine has a unique serial number that helps to identify important details about its specifications, manufacturing date, and version.
Here are the usual places to look for the Perkins engine serial number
1) Data Plate on the Engine Block
Most Perkins engines have a metal data plate attached to the engine block. This plate typically contains the serial number, model, and other specifications. You can usually find it in one of these locations:
- On the left or right side of the block, near the flywheel housing.
- On the timing cover, close to the front of the engine.
The following images (click to enlarge) show the progression of serial number discovery on a Perkins engine.
Sometimes the plate is unreadable or missing. In that case, you can find the serial number in the following locations:
Typically, a Perkins plate will look like the image below:
2) Stamped Directly on the Block
If the data plate is missing, the serial number may be stamped directly onto the engine block. Check along the flat surfaces near:
- The fuel pump.
- The junction of the cylinder head and flywheel housing.
3) In Documentation and Manuals
The serial number might also be written in service manuals, maintenance logs, or delivery documents that came with the engine. If the engine is part of a forklift, the equipment manufacturer may also have a record of the engine’s serial number.
Format of the Perkins Serial Number
Typically, the serial number begins with two letters (for example, “AA” or “FG”), followed by a series of numbers that indicate the engine family and production order.
See the tables below to decode your serial number:
Intella Parts offers a complete selection of Perkins parts to keep your equipment running at peak performance. Need help finding the right part? Contact our parts experts.