4-20 vs 5-20...who to tell them apart?

[w30bob]

Hi Guys,

  I got what I think is a 5-20 in today, but the data plate is missing.  Looking online the 4-20 and 5-20 look identical, but there must be some part differences between them.  Does anyone know which parts are different, or how to identify one if the data plate is MIA?  Other than taking them apart and checking bore and stroke, etc.  I mean from the outside.  

thanks,
bob

[ronaldt]

The only distinguishable difference between the two that I can think of is the starter rope handle. The 5-20 is older and should have come with the "whale tale" shaped handle. The 4-20 is a little newer and probably would have had the more square handle stamped with Homelite. These were often changed over the years so hard to tell if original. One other long shot thing, is the fuel line from the shut of valve to the carb brass/copper or is it rubber? I have a model 17 which is close to the vintage of a 5-20 and it has the copper line coming out the the shut off valve. My 4-20 has rubber line coming off the valve. Hope this helps. Ron

[w30bob]

Ah......Ron has the eagle eyes!! Thanks, and will check those things later today!!

;O)
bob

[ronaldt]

I'm curious as to what you found?