Honda GC Series model names

[Roy_N]

The ID stampings on Honda small engine blocks give the Model Code-Serial Number then the Engine Type. For example: GJAEA-5763025 N5AF . The engine block has the engine displacement cast in, for example 160 cc. But where is the Model NAME? For example there is a GVC160A and a GVC160LA model name engine, with a different parts manual for each Model NAME. I know the V means vertical shaft, but what does the L stand for?

[bgsengine]

I couldn't tell you , but all I know is, when doing parts lookups, we just put in the whole serial number in the Honda DDiN system and it comes up with the model and spec number , so we just go by the serial number alone - if we have that we can find the right parts.

and actually you have a typo, It's GCV - the C is Consumer model , and V as you surmise is Vertical

The LA or end numbers, are kind of like Trim Codes, I believe (Like Briggs has a 4 digit type 1234 , and trim code -E1 ) I would guess - I never really paid attention, since we just go by serial number, which is almost always the easiest one to read and decipher in the block engraving anyhow (the type numbers are often hard to read)

[StarTech]

I know the V means vertical shaft, but what does the L stand for?

That would be in the manufacturer and model version location. A plain letter "L" would be the first version and a "L1" would the second version and so forth. As where that factory located is probably only known in the Honda network.

The letters and numbers after the serial number that you listed is the type code (exact version of the engine). The engine type code is stamped into the side of the engine, usually close to the serial number. Engine type codes may be up to 4 characters. If a code is less than 4 characters, you may see asterisks as placeholders (i.e. an engine stamped with QX** is a QX type engine.)

[smallen]

the manufacture location and sales market id is not marked on the engine, this why it is important to use the serial number to look up parts and specs,
using your example the L is the sales market, U.S. CARB Tier 3
the A is manufactured in America