MH 44KR Serial Number Question

[Vinnie L.]

I was looking for the serial number of my Massey Harris 44KR tractor (1948), and found the frame ID tag stamped with KR 1638. The numbers stamped on the transmission cover on top, are KR 1642. What gives? Do I have 2 different tractors? Thanks.

 

[MMEd]

I would guess it was just an error at factory - the number steel stamped into the frame should be correct. By 1948, the Gas (GR) version were dominant - possibly there was more than one KR config on line at same time since s/n are so close and tags got switched. Once tag was applied, that would be the number used to track it in inventory - too much trouble to try and read stamped number with paint over it particularly if thick coat of paint.

 

[Bruce Colbourne]

The data book I have on massey tractors lists both standard axle and row crops built as a 44-k model.They used kerosene for feul.Yours is a 1948 row-crop model.