'31 Model L identification numbers and colors

Photo is a 1937 L with colors that are pretty authentic, so far as I can determine.

Standard color on the L was LC Gray, with Case Red wheels. Fan, magneto, radiator screen are black. Some photos show the front hub caps and rear wheel nuts black, also. There were some variations; apparently some tractors for municipal use were maroon.

Decal lettering ("CASE") for later models is silver; on the earliest models, it was sand-colored. I've only seen one, and I don't know if anyone makes those early-type decals.

On the later models, raised lettering is silver, and striping is red and white. I need to measure mine and refresh myself as to the correct striping layout measurements, and when I do, I'll post the info. The tractor is stored about 30 miles from where I live.

Earliest L's had an oil cup for the rocker arms, that stuck up through a hole in the center of the hood. They also had a flat fan belt.

Earliest models did not have embossed lettering on the sides of the hood; later ones did. Reproductions of fenders and both type hoods are readily available.

If it happens to be an early model then there are several differences to clue you in to it. '29s had the serial tags on the front bolster low on the right side and a totally different governor setup. Other clues on early models would be carb and mag types and models, manifold type and whether the hood was embossed or not. All these things will still have you at the mercy of what all has been modified from original condition over 70+ years.