The question of "What do the codes on my data card mean?" comes up over and over again. This is a listing of the common codes found on older Unimogs. This covers the "second generation" models ( 404, 403,406, 413, 416, 421, 407, 417) and the early "third generation" models ( 424, 425, 435 ).

The list is by no means inclusive, but it covers the options most likely to be found on such as the Case U 900, Schmidt and MBNA U 1200's, the ex-BW models 416 and U1300L.

-Jack Russell

Unimog Option Codes

The Unimog concept is based on a basic version, essentially a stripped cab chassis. To this are added various options to make up an individual complete vehicle. In the earliest days, they were all just specified by text. Starting in the late 50's the factory developed a system of "option codes" to simplify the build record.

At first these were a three digit numeric code, subsequently changed to an alpha/numeric system, where the letter was taken from the basic production groups: Chassis, Brakes, Electrical etc.

These option codes became part of the data card system. On the individual data card, will be found groups of codes. On the early cards, the codes are the all-numeric system: 708 709 730 which indicates disc brakes, ALB valve, two line trailer air brakes. Starting in the early 70's this was changed to the new style alpha/numeric codes: B06 B25 B42, indicating the same options.

This list is a listing of the common codes found on the earlier Unimogs, 404, 421, 403, 406, 413, 413, 416, 424, 425, 435. It is by no means complete. It lists the current style option code, and also the earlier code (in parentheses) where applicable. Note all codes do not apply to all models. Some codes are only applicable to the SBU series; some are only applicable to the earlier "2nd generation" models.

Many of these options later became series production and will no longer show on a data card, for units built after that date. Examples would be windshield wipers, (became standard in 1988), two sun visors (became standard in 1991) cab pressurization, (became standard in 1989).

If anyone has time to offer some translations or additional information for these options, please