Does this mean that, due to my neglect in making sure the VIN tag was replaced and my brother's changing the engine without updating the title with the new number has completely denuded this wonderful truck of its value.
That's highly likely. From what I hear about the process in California it would probably be easier for you to process a new VIN in Texas then transfer THAT to her in California. Every state has a method for resolving that problem. Your issue is not unique. It happens a lot because people change engines without retitling the vehicle. FWIW the number on the data plate wouldn't do you any good even if it was still there because it's not the same as the engine number (you advised the engine number is on the title). The number on the data plate is the Unit Serial Number, again no relationship to the engine number. There's another option that I personally have not used and that's contracting with a title bonding company. I have no clue what hoops you have to jump through if any. I've read where some folks love a bonded title and some had difficulty. Good luck. Keep in mind that asking the regulatory agency you'll be having to deal with is where you need to go for your best info. As I said every state has a method for resolving it since this happens every day.
