Remove that top cover on the column and you should be able to see the attaching bolts. Remove those and it looks like the switch will be able to be pulled off to the side with the wires attached. Then it's just a matter of getting the wires removed from the switch.

 

Thanks for the pic, but we are at cross-purposes here...

This is the block casting number, it's not unique to this engine. The engine number I am after would be stamped or etched on a plain surface somewhere.

 

Thanks for that, I can see some strange-looking heads on little bolts for getting the top cover off, but I don't know what tools will fit them.

I am now going away for work for about ten days, I will have to return to this when I get back.

 

Since these were never exported to Australia, I would fully expect that the number you are looking for is NOT there. No requirement for that here in the US/Mexico/Canada...... You've imported a couple other vans though, haven't you??? What did you do with them? It there is a number, it should be in the same place as the others....

 

If it is those bolts visible in the photo I believe those are the ignition switch bolts. My van is the previous generation and the top cover was held on with bolts through the bottom of the lower cover. Are you sure it won't come off with the lower cover off?

 

The other van was an '87 model, not a Magnum, I don't recall having any issues finding it on that.

The two pickups I've imported never got registered in my name so, again, I don't know what happened. However, the engine number always seems to be there on the front of the left bank next to the water pump.

Right now I'm away from home for ten days working etc, so I won't be able to look at anything else until I return.

 

I have two magnum motors apart, One on a stand and the other on a dolly. They don't have any #'s like you mentioned other than the casting #'s. Did some searching and found this:

The engine code (or engine number) is a unique identifying number assigned to the engine of each vehicle. Should you wish to obtain this information, please check your registration papers as it may be listed there or consult your local Roads and Registration authority.

What is the equivalent to the DMV over there? I would see what it says in detail about this engine #. Specifically vehicles from the USA.

 

With all due respect, it is these people (here in Australia) who want the number...

That comment is referring to the US registration, of which I know pretty much nothing. I am treading a pioneering path here.

 

Same here to how they do it over there. No, That is not how they do it here. In the US you need the title(in your name) and proof of insurance then you can get it registered. Of course you will need the vin but that will be on title and a valid drivers license . Don't need any # off the motor.

 

An therein lies my problem...

I buy a vehicle from the US and nobody's ever needed the engine number but I must have it or else.