While you cannot easily peer inside the motorcycle you are sizing up for a possible purchase, you must check those things on the outside to make certain they are correct.

Carburetors on Vincents and all British motorcycles generally bear model numbers stamped on the mounting area. Two numbers may be encountered. First and generally, the "carburetor type no." is given. For example, on 1947 and 1948 Black Shadows, (Series B) the correct "type" numbers are 289M/1DO and 289N/2DS, front and rear respectively. Both are bronze bodied carbs. However, the "mixing chamber body no." is 229/112R front and 289/011R for the rear. Either set of numbers would indicate the correct carb. mixing chamber for your early Black Shadow.

Knowing the correct numbers is important to getting full value on your purchase. Knowing that there can be two sets of correct numbers is also important. Currently, Black Shadow carburetors, the mixing chamber part, are not being reproduced and are very, very difficult to locate. Series B Black Shadow carbs are just about impossible to buy for any amount of money. If they aren't on your bike, and you are paying full price for a correct one, it amounts to a significant reduction in what you might pay.

The other important areas on a post-war Vincent include the cylinder heads. Series B heads are different from Series C heads. Front heads, either B or C, are different from rear heads. Engines can use combinations of heads but the correctness of the engine is compromised. Check the engine mating numbers or "matching numbers" stamped between the cylinders to see that the engine case halves are the same. Learn to look for the differences.

Vincents have different kick starters, engine cases, fuel tanks, tail lights, headlights, switchgear, shifters, brake drums, rocker covers ,saddles and more depending on the year. Even the control cables vary by age. Learn to consult your reference when these items changed.