Thanks for the info, the last letter is a V, which should be a 1998. Also on the hour meter, it reads 37294. I beleive that means it has 3729 hours.Is that correct? I left it run for about 20 minutes and the last digit went from 2 to 4. I beleive the last digit is tenths?. Thanks for your help. I also have another question, it has been sitting for about 3 months. It idles fine but sometimes when you press the gas (when it is cold), it backfires.Would plugs and wires help this? It is propane. Are there any adjustments to the carb or any cleaning that can be done? I purchased this unit, but I really need a rubber tire one to run on gravel etc. If anyone has something available to trade, pleaselet me know.It is a model H40XMS. 129"max. lift, good condition.