Porsche 356 Engine Numbers (1950 – 1965)

Porsche 356 Engine Codes

There are several important numbers to identify a 356 engine. The first, and most obvious one, is the serial number, which uniquely identifies each engine. It is on the “third piece” of the case, or timing cover, below the generator stand (or on the generator stand if you have an early 2-piece engine case).

You will also find an engine type identifier, which was Porsche’s internal code to designate the different specification engines. The type number can be found on the right side of the case, near the center, on the perimeter bolt boss. It is just behind (relative to the car, not you) the fan shroud. So, look at an installed engine, looking beyond the generator stand, at the “bump” in the case casting where the two case halves join.