> I went through the same routine a while back. The number should be on
> the transom on the starboard side at the top. It should read "HMSA
> xxxxYYYY where xxxx is the hull number. HMS is the initials of the
> prevoius manufacturer, I believe A denotes a 15ft., xxxx is the hull
> number, YYYY is some ID issued (I believe) by the state, in my case
> Calif. My number reads "HMSA2357J899" and I know for a fact that my hull
> number is 2357. Hope this helps.
The YYYY is the date of manufacture. This numbering system
became mandatory in about 1973 if my memory serves me . . .
Dik Richardson
Hamada HMS 18 #11
LosBarbas Ranger 29 #60
Vas Kora Islander 33 #363
Hidden Harbor Marina, Rio Vista, CA