I pulled this off my 51 today. I'd like to take my time and restore this one as close to original as I can. Does this VR look correct for a 51, or is it likely a replacement?

Kevin-
It appears you have an original AUTOLITE 8N Voltage Regulator -see link to one of our HISTORY posts. Ther were two models so not sure which one you have. Might have to really look close at tag. Helpful Hint: Don't scrub tag, use soft cloth with light oil,and a magnifying glass is handy. However, Ed Goodings follow-up post of his VR looks to be a newer aftermarket replacement, but I could be wrong.

Tim Daley(MI)

• Early 8N Original Voltage Regulator

Kevin, sounds like it's moot now, but here are pics of the VR that I took off my '52. I think it's original - this tractor has most of its original parts. I did not pop the top - it is riveted on and I didn't want to drill them out:

fwiw.............Ed
'52 8N475798

The location of the terminals and the Autolite tag is what led me to think mine was an original. Looking carefully at the layers of paint, it became clear it was not original. It is the original Autolite brand and type though. I believe it's the later replacements that have the terminals marked and all in a row on one side like yours. But I wasn't at the factory hanging them on the tractors, so I don't know for sure, GRIN.
KL

On further review, this is just a very old aftermarket replacement.