So I picked up this 1948 International harvester KB-2 pick up and I need to apply for a title in CA. I am looking for what other owners have on their CA title as the VIN # (the truck has sat since 1962 has yellow plates with a 62 sticker, but no record at the dmv) On my truck the data plate (that uses screws) is gone. I found the frame serial number, the cab itself has a MODEL plate on the dr side kick panel with a number stamped and it is riveted to the cab (unlike the data plates) The bed also has a model plate (diff prefix and numbers) riveted on. The truck is all original including the green diamond flat six (missing the head) So I'm looking to see what number is being used on titles for these trucks, FRAME, CAB plate or ENGINE. I already tried a million searches and no dice. Thanks, don't want to start the build before I figure this out.
I would say use frame number. The model plate should be a model #, All cabs that are built like that should have the same model #. That means there could be many around with the same number. I am from the right coast, The DMV might think differently on the left coast.
Frame , but mine was also on the original flat 6 engine as well. If its still in the truck have a look
Use the frame number (chassis) on the driverside frame rail in front of the axle. Should start as KB or K. The cab plate on driverside kick panel is a part number for the cab, the bed has one also. I have had a few KB's that where titled off the engine number do to it being listed first above the Chassis # on the Vin tag mounted to the upper firewall. The K's only have the Chassis number listed and the Vin tag on those are mounted above the Part number tag on the driverside kick panel
It does have the frame stamp, KB2-69XXX, the big data plate is gone, If I use the frame # then I forced to use the the original frame in my build since I don't think its stamped on the cab.
Perhaps an honest conversation with a dmv office manager is in order so that you'll have what they want to begin with. Try an office in a small out-of-the-way community where the pace is a bit slower. .
Get the truck inspected as is with the serial# in frame ... Get the title in your hand in your name... Then do what ever you want
Thanks every one, I will use the frame number, I'm going to have a VIN verifying company come out and do the inspection (and do the same for my 49 shoebox at the same time), then Ill go to the my local AAA office where I have applied for titles many times in the past. Anyone know of a service that will come to you house and weigh a vehicle, its needed for CA pick ups.