Evening Folks, I posted this over at Stovebolt too, but figured I’d ask you guys too. My ‘53 3100 is the third ‘bolt I’ve owned, but the very first to be ***led using the engine number. The other two were ***led based on the door data plate. Fortunately, my original engine is going strong and I’m in the middle of a T5 & ‘58 rear axle swap. But I started thinking eventually I may want an upgrade to the motor which could be a cause of concern later when I go to sell it. Has anyone bought a truck that’s ***led to the motor yet the motor wasn’t in the truck anymore? I think there is a way in Texas to have it inspected, fill out two forms, then have the ***le re***igned with the body tag number versus the original engine number. Maybe it’s a moot point, but if the original motor tanks, that’s the only VIN ***igned to the truck and it’ll be absent from being on the truck. Weird they would do this even back then.
It's good that you're thinking ahead, it seems to me that it would be wise to take care of that now, before you have engine problems.
Keep in mind there was no frame number on these trucks. The engine number or the door serial number were the only options. The serial number plate was screwed on with clutch head screws, and obviously engines can be changed. These trucks are 70 years old, every state must have a procedure to handle this, even if it means a state issued vin tag permanently mounted to the frame.
I have to take a car I built down for inspection and I’ll ask about changing the VIN to the door jamb body tag. The last two used that number. I’ll see what they say!
The Jalopy Journal
