What is typically done when the VIN on a truck frame is no longer there - either due to a front 'clip' job or in the extreme case when you use an aftermarket frame??

Do you have to title/register that truck as new then or get the state to issue a new VIN??

I realize the laws may vary from state to state, I'm just curious about generalities!!

Thanks!

 

I used only the id plate from the glove box. I live in Texas. I went to an inspection station, got a "green sheet" where they recorded the vin from that plate, then on to the tag office. No one ever looked anywhere else for the number. I have been told on this board that there is a vin stamped in the frame. But I had two trucks, a 55 and a 54, which I combined into one. I did a frame-off restoration, wire brushed and sand blasted the entire frame. Never found a vin on it.


Winford

 

As you said, the rules vary from state to state, but I would say that in general, if you've already got the title and the number matches the body, don't worry about it. Somes localities and some individual law officers may be really picky, but most of them have better things to do than crawl all over your truck looking for matching VIN numbers. If you're really worried about it, I'd get a set of stamps and stamp the VIN number you intend to use on the frame in the stock location and forget it. So what if it's modified or a new chassis? Do you think the cops really know what a stock '50's Ford truck frame looks like? What's more, do you think they really care? I would be more concerned about it if you intend to seek full coverage insurance. Insurance companies exist solely to find ways to not pay claims. If they see a mismatched or missing VIN number on your truck should, God forbid, it get damaged, they may try to deny the claim on the basis that it's not even the truck that they were covering. Just something to think about!