Missing Serial Number Tag
 

Forgive my ignorance but I need some assistance. I bought a 1250 yesterday and it's my first IH Cub. The previous owner said that he believed it was a 78 model but I read that QL's with external brakes were pre 77. That sent me on a hunt for my tractors serial number to verify what year it is. It looks like the tag was likely torn off years ago judging from the paint damage and rust in that area. Is there anywhere else I might find the serial number stamped into something?

Unfortunately, no. Unless someone has figured out how to date tractors based on casting numbers if that's even possible. Maybe it's just a part number IDK.

Unfortunately, no. You might be able to use the serial number of the engine as reference.

Like I've mentioned before, knowing the year is really of no use. Everything is done by SN in the tractor world. Year is really irrelevant unless just for bragging rights, or personal knowledge. I would say the PO just didn't know.

I do not know if there was some year cut off for the brakes, but I do know that the parts book shows no serial number break for the brake system. It either has internal or external brakes. I'm going to say that they were just made one way or the other with no regard to when they were produced. May have just been a cost/option thing.

I know it really doesn't matter. I just wanted to know for personal knowledge I guess. I was born in 75 and was kinda hoping it would end up being a 75 as well. Thanks guys.

If it has a cast iron grill it is more than likely it is an early model

If it has an aluminum grill it is later. They also have the wire harness running through the firewall on the starter side rather than under it. The later ones also had the PTO wired on the starter side rather than going down along the carb side frame as the earlier ones were.

These are the differences I have found in 10 or so QLs I own.

what size gas cap?? and what size front spindles??, i have a 75 and it originally had a small gas fill and .75" front spindles...also, as stated above, a cast iron grill frame....trying to remember what else.......??...

Rear lift lever? One had a rod to hold it on and one used Frankenstein bolts.

Automatic or manual hydro valves.

Oil pan, cast iron or aluminum.

The grille support is cast iron, the harness runs down the right side. The engine oil pan is aluminum, the lift lever is on a rod, and the relief valves have a little nub sticking out of the top so I guess they are manual.