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I'm trying to decode the data plate on my new 55 Desoto. From what I've seen there are two different data plates on 55 Desotos...one that says 'Chrysler Division' and the other says 'Desoto Division'. I figure the former refers to cars built in Los Angeles, while the latter is for cars built in Detroit. Mine is one of the Detroit-built cars.
I want to focus on the option codes on the right-hand side. The top line reads (vertically): TR HR EC FC AR. Second line reads: EW SO PB KI DM. I've got a couple figured out (I think).
TR could be transmission. I have a 3 in that slot.
HR could be heater. I have a 5 there.
There is also a 1 under EC, which I can't figure out.
EW is likely electric windows.
I have a 1 under SO, a 5 under PB (power brakes ?) and a 7 under DM.
Can anyone help me out with the rest of the codes ?
Ron
If Mac George doesn't beat me to it, I can research these in a few days when my schedule quiets down a bit.
EC = electric clock, assuming your car is equipped with a clock.
Mark
Hi Ron,
The codes on the 55 Desoto data plate are as follows as best as I can determine:
TR= Transmission 3= Powerflite Automatic Transmission
HR= Heater 5=Model 700 All Weather System
EC=Clock 1=Electric Clock
FC=Foam Cushion 2=Airfoam Rear Seat Cushion(std. on Fireflites)
AR=Arm Rest 2=Rear Seat Center Arm Rest (for 4 Door Sedans)
EW=Electric Windows 2=Electric Window Lifts
SG=Solex Glass 1=Equipped with Solex Glass (Tinted Glass)
PB= Power Brakes 5= Equipped with power brakes
I am uncertain about the DM and KI codes, but the code for a rear seat speaker is 7 which is the only option listed with a 7 code. If your car has a rear seat speaker, this may verify that is what the DM code stands for.
If we can be of further help, please ask.
Mac
Ron,
See the attached page from the '55 code number list provided to dealers when ordering cars. It will help to clarify what Mac has explained and perhaps help on the remaining codes for your car. Also included is the cover page of this publication. The entire code list is a large tri-fold item that includes all the possible and available color and trim combinations.
Mark
Thanks Mark and Mac !
Can this entire document (all three pages) be posted in the Tech Articles forum as a PDF ? I think this would be quite helpful for folks working their '55.
Ron
I have moved the pages that Mark posted to a new post in the Tech Articles forum for people to have access to from there.
Good idea, Ron. It would be nice to build a comprehensive resource to come to for that kind of info!
It's supposed to be fun!
1949 De Soto Custom Convertible (project)
