How to tell how old a sa-200 f-162 is ?

Date 12-23-2007 17:13

the fastest way to tell a 162 from a 163 is the starter on a 162 is located down low on the side of the machine and the 163 is up high. the 163 is the newer engine. I think they started using them around 1970. the 162 as far as I know has a bit smaller main crank bearings and the head doesn't have the hole in the top to accept the distributor for an electronic ignition. I'm sure the other members will correct me if I'm wrong! lol

By 63 Max

Date 12-23-2007 18:07

downhandonly thanks for the reply. That starter position is a good thing to know, can tell right off. The 162's are pretty reliable correct? Does 1500.00 seem like a decent deal?

By 52lincoln (***)

Date 12-23-2007 18:14

if runs and welds,thats a great price.and doesn t just poor oil out of it

By downhandonly (***)

Date 12-23-2007 21:50

I've got a 67 and you can fix it with a hammer and a roll of duct tape! reliability depends on maintainance. $1500 for a machine that hasn't been made in 40 years is a deal as long as it runs and is in fair condition. merry christmas

By raftergwelding (*****)

Date 12-23-2007 22:01 Edited 12-23-2007 22:06

you need to look at the control panel and get the code number then go to a local lincoln dealer and get them to look it up that wiil tell you the year of it they stopped making the 162 in late 60's or early 70's the spark plugs on the head are further apart than a 163 and ive seen 163 with the low mount starter so thats not a good way to tell although true as it is the best way is to look at the plugs it will also say on the face plate what motor is in it if it aint been changed ksellon from the forum can help you with that too

By shorthood2006 (****)

Date 12-23-2007 22:34

not to correct rafterg, but get me the serial number off of the front of the machine, and i will get you the date it was built.
also, if you go to billswelderrepair.com, there is the same sheet of dates on there, too

By 63 Max

Date 12-24-2007 00:13

Thanks for all the help guys. Picked up the welder today and it runs great and weld great to. I look at bill's site and found out it's a 1964 model I think. Have one more ?, how do you know the code number for the machine. Is it on the machine somewhere. Here's the SN A-487053. Thanks Again Dwight

By shorthood2006 (****)

Date 12-24-2007 00:59

the serial # is going to "date" the macine. the code # is less important. code is usually stamped in the top left side of the generator.(if you are facing the controls)