On the manufacturers plate (behind the drivers seat), and in the engine bay on VW's after 1964, the Chassis number is printed.
The first three numbers contain information about the bus as follows:
First Number: Type ( Type 1=Bug, Type 2=Bus, Type 3=Square/Notch/Fasty )
Second Number: Model ( Kombi, Microbus, Deluxe Microbus, Singlecab etc...)
Third Number: Year (final number of the year... 8 for 1968 or 1978, 3 for 1973 etc...)
Remaining Numbers: Sequential production number
Model names and numbers are as follows:
1 = Panelvan
2 = 8-9 Seat Microbus
3 = Kombi
4 = 8-9 Seat Deluxe Microbus
5 = 7 Seat Deluxe Microbus
6 = Pickup
7 = Ambulance
8 = 7 Seat Microbus
My camper for instance has the chassis number 2362080001
This indicates that it came off the production line as a Kombi (delivery van with factory fitted windows and optional seat) in 1976 before it was converted to a camper, and was the 2,080,001th Type 23 produced in that year 🙂
The paint code I believe is behind the passenger seat on most buses... if it still exists.
CHeers!
[ Edited on 10-10-2006 by Schmoburger ]
1976 Kombi Trakka camper, "Buttercup"... driver.
1976 Beluxe Microbus, "Saphir"... resto.
1974 Kombi panelvan, "George"... shed.
1974 Superbug, "Schmeetle"... resto.
[img]http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b366/c