During the process of frame restoration and IFS install I found the chassis number stamped near to the passenger side suspension. So what have others done with respect to keeping the number visible or do you just paint over it? I have photos of the number stamping but not sure ether I need to keep it visible?
I am planning to fully smooth out the frame and paint with single stage paint.
Any thoughts?

John

 

That is the vin number for our trucks that should correspond to the one listed on your title. It will need to be visible in case of inspection or sales so you can't smooth it over.

I cleaned mine out with a wire brush on my grinder then used eastwoods chassis black that I sprayed with a gun. I don't have a picture but there are no problems with visibility.

 

In the past I have cleaned up the area on the frame where the number is stamped using scotchbrite, etc and then sprayed clear coat over it. Prior to spraying the frame with the color coat, mask off the number area and then paint the frame. When you remove the masking tape you will see a very professional looking frame number stamping in natural steel.

 

Does the '53 frame have this number stamped on it? and where? I blasted and painted mine and never saw it anywhere unless I just overlooked it.

 

It should be there. I have heard of them on the passenger side framerail, drivers side by the steering gear box and on the front radiator support crossmember.

 

Thanks guys, like your idea CharlieLed.

 

My 53 was on the right front frame rail . i just painted over it as i have no plans of ever selling it and the frame is not the original one . also my truck is from theearlier days . they took the good 53 with no title and the junk 54 with a good vin plate and title and made them one .....

 

What if one was to cut out the vin on a frame that is not so good and weld it into a frame that is good so that you could keep the same year going.

 

It all depends on where you live and how well you make the graft. Personally I would fill the existing number on the frame and stamp the new one somewhere in proximity. I know that there will be a number of posts after this saying how you are violating the law, blah, blah, blah. I have a frame that a PO installed a Volare IFS onto...the VIN was either lost or it was never there. I talked to the local sheriff and he advised me to stamp the correct number on the frame. I bought the stamps, along with the star stamp, and did just that. To be honest, who cares about frame numbers on a 50+ year old truck? It's not like there is a string of chop shops around stealing these trucks to part out.