How to Read Tecumseh 4-digit and 5-digit Engine Date Codes

Beginning in 2004, Tecumseh began using 5-digits in their date codes. So the first two digits indicate the year of manufacture. For example 04282 means that the engine was built in 2004.
For engines built prior to 2004, Tecumseh used 4-digit date codes, and it is only the first digit that tells you the year. You will have to estimate the decade. For example, 6275 means that this engine was built in a year ending with the number 6. It can't be 2006, because in that case it would read "06." So, it must be either 1996 or 1986. I hope this video helps you. Good luck. Buckwsr, putting the "Do" into "Do-It-Yourself"

[@rammehta9383]

Good way of getting correct info

[@JoeZyzyx]

thank you! now to correct the flywheel key that's been sheared!

[@Buckwsr]

Awesome! Got a lot of snow where you're at?

[@JoeZyzyx]

@@Buckwsr Not every year. Maryland, but I also have small place in Florida and was clearing near the woods, and probably hit a small stump hard, and didn't run again. Have new flywheel keys on way. It's a LV195EA engine push mower, 2004.

[@Buckwsr]

@@JoeZyzyx yeah, I’m in Jersey. We didn’t get any snow this year. None.

[@Mike-ig2zq]

Good info. Thanks Buck!

[@ronaldsalyer8439]

Before 2004 first number is last number of year. Next three numbers are day of year. 2004 on first two numbers are last two numbers of year and the next three numbers are day of year. So 04051 would be February 20, 2004

[@Buckwsr]

Thanks, Ronald.

[@franksmith8054]

great info , so my tecumseh has a 6 and it does not have the points only the electron magneto ... so would you guess it's a 1996?? I am sure the 1986 still have the points ? Your Thoughts?

[@Buckwsr]

An engine from 1986 would also have electronic ignition. Points and condenser lasted till about 1980 or 1982. So your engine could be an 86 or a 96.... There may be other indications of its age based on appearance, etc....

[@ryanandpapa]

If the first example, 04282 was manufactured in 2004, how is it possible that the sticker says "meets California 2006 emission reg" when the engine would have been made before 2006?

[@Buckwsr]

Those forward-thinking Californians, always way ahead of the game! But honestly, you've made a good point; I will have to re-think that one. Thanks.

[@codesuc0171]

I have encountered the same issue with my Yerf Dog Go-Kart engine. No clue why it's like this...

[@andrewalexander9492]

Perhaps the law whcih set the 2006 emissions standards was made into law sometime before 2004 with an effective date of 2006? Early enough for Tecumseh to start meeting the future standard with engines manufactured in 2004? I don't know this is the case, I'm only speculating. But it's pretty common for regulatory changes to have a future effective date, ie: they regulations don't become effective immediately when the law is passed.

[@wjmelton]

I have a question, maybe you can help. The research I've done so far has told me the same thing you said in your video. However, my DOM has a 5 digit number but starts with 02. Any idea on year made? It's a Tecumseh Power Sport 6.5 hp. Thanks in advance! Thanks for sharing this video!

[@brendawolford5658]

❤ maybe perhaps it's a counterfeit

[@robsmith2291]

Mine also starts in 03?????????

[@numberone7674]

I have a Yard Machines snowblower with a Tecumseh 139cc 2 stroke Model HSK845 with a D.O.M code of 0221 G. Can anybody please help me figure out when it was made?

[@jerrynoe4662]

Mine reads 3164D

[@terrythoffman9375]

Craftsman has to be 97 because it's OHV

[@Buckwsr]

Yes, good point.

[@niteclydn]

I think mine was made in 1979

[@donmayberryjrsOPE]

I've got an '03 with the longer number which is
DOM 03355CHO543 So before '03 they had the shorter number totally different sticker.