could well be the right place, I also note four bolts missing that should be holding the two brackets to the main loader frame cross tube.

Also most likely missing the shim packs that make up the joint.

Catsilver, Old Magnet,

I saw those empty bolt holes when looking for the serial number. At first, they looked 'normal' but that's because they appear to have already been missing at the time of the last paint job. It looks like 3 have broken off bolts and one might be clear. Should be a fun project. I guess those brackets mainly support the drawbar which must not have seen heavy use?

They help hold the main loader frame to the back end case,

SUCCESS!! The number was exactly where Old Magnet suggested in post #10 (RH side, top of draw bar mount). Serial number on the plate there is 42A499



So that makes it an early 'F'? '59 or '60?

The pictures posted by Ironman3406 were quite helpful. I guess mine is a direct start conversion. I see some disconnected lever connections in the starter area. Mine has that same orange color under a layer of yellow.



Time to order manuals. Does anyone have any specific recommendations for a source for manuals? Are they all about the same?

Thanks,
Bob

1959 model.
Direct electric start was an "attachment" option.
Try ebay for original manuals first.

"Old wrote:

Yet another source... the Operation & Maintenance Instruction book says look here (top of the drawbar mount) for s/n. Can almost see the tag where your battery cable ground lands.

"bobhead" wrote:

SUCCESS!! The number was exactly where Old Magnet suggested in post #10 (RH side, top of draw bar mount). Serial number on the plate there is 42A499



So that makes it an early 'F'? '59 or '60?

The pictures posted by Ironman3406 were quite helpful. I guess mine is a direct start conversion. I see some disconnected lever connections in the starter area. Mine has that same orange color under a layer of yellow.



Time to order manuals. Does anyone have any specific recommendations for a source for manuals? Are they all about the same?

Thanks,
Bob

i have one i found all the numbers but the last one do you have a better pic of location thanks