How can I be certain that my car has the original engine that it came with from the factory?

Question

I have 1998 Dodge Grand Caravan and have suspician that the mechanic has changed the original engine with some other of the same kind as it dosn't look the same. The label on the engine (close to the oil changing cap) is scratched so bad that no information can be read. Please help me how I can make sure I have the original engine? Is there any place where the VIN (or similar) number can be verified?

Answer 1

it is a mitsubishi engine the vin number should be on the side of the block

Answer 2

yes there is , When the motor and trans or assembled at the plant vin # are stamped on the block and trans you will have to get the motor and trans really clean to find it we usually stamped the # on the right side close to the starter, Get you a small mirror and a flash light and take your time, Now remember it is not stamped on there as you would know it , It will look like small dimples , By the way ablack light will make it really show up , Good luck
P S That was one of my many jobs I once had at Atlanta ,Production

Answer 3

I do believe there are numbers that are stamped on the block of an engine, but I am not sure if that can be used to match it up to an original car.

However, I do want to offer one peice of advice my father offered me when I started car shopping. Never buy a car from a mechanic. He/she knows how to keep it running as cheaply as possible just long enough to sell it. BTW...my dad was a mechanic.

Answer 4

The vin will be listed on your engine. Since you can't read the sticker try looking around the radiator under the vehicle. There should be another one

Answer 5

You should be able to call a dodge dealer and ask them where the # is located on your engine.

Answer 6

Your motor vehicle branch registry would have that information .