identify a 1941 239

[revkev6]

hey guys, just found a 1941 big truck go up for sale and the motor turns. was wondering what the best way to tell from the outside if it has the 221 or the 239 in it?? I have heard big trucks got the 239 as well as merc...

[alanwoodieman]

these are pictures of my 1 1/2 ton 1941 truck engine. I also have another 41 3/4 ton truck which has the same tag under the head bolt


is the serial # 99T or 18T on the vin

[Seth Swoboda]

How many head studs does it have and will it pass the pencil test for 1939-1940 engines?

[revkev6]

Originally Posted by alanwoodieman

these are pictures of my 1 1/2 ton 1941 truck engine. I also have another 41 3/4 ton truck which has the same tag under the head bolt


is the serial # 99T or 18T on the vin

thanks, that's what I'm hoping to find on this truck... it's a pretty solid 1-1 1/2 ton truck for a decent price. not really my wheelhouse but the 99 motors are supposed to be "the hot ticket" for building a good motor.
is this still the case??

[revkev6]

Well.. never mind it was a 41 but looks like it has a 38 motor in it...81a heads. Didnt have time to dig more to verify other details but truck was rougher than pics showed anyway.

[JSeery]

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I'm not sure if it is all, but at least most 41 blocks have the "raised" area around the intake manifold.

[alanwoodieman]

81A head are correct for this year engine, actually from 38 when the 24 stud engine came out until 59ab (46/48) , but with those heads it is probable a 85 hp 221.

[rotorwrench]

The only sure fire way is to pull the heads and check the coolant ports on the center deck. To many outside similarities to tell for sure.

[revkev6]

Possibly original but probably not. I only wanted it if it was a 239. Add the probable 221 and the rough body and no thanks... I have a 59a motor and an 8ba waiting. No interest in a 221. Early 239 though would be cool