The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk Title Issue on 47 GMC

First let me say, if I am inadvertently posting this topic in the wrong area, I apologize ahead of time and please move the thread to the appropriate forum; I honestly did not see any other place to post this question.

I was reading elsewhere on the site some information that shed some light on my situation:

"If you were fortunate enough to have a good title for your new purchase, great! It might even have a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or "serial number" listed. But while most states titled vehicles by the VIN, some states titled by the engine serial number (found stamped in the block to the left of the distributor), which doesn't have much to do with the body serial number. As most old trucks have had the engine replaced once or twice, your title may not match your engine (if it has been replaced) and your title uses an engine number."

A few years ago I purchased a 47 GMC ACR 700 series that came with a title. However, the identification plate inside the cab did not match the number listed as the VIN number on the title. The ID plate serial number did match the number stamped on the right front frame rail, so it is the correct ID plate. I started looking around and discovered that what had happened at some point in time, the truck was titled by the number on the engine block, as quoted above. There is a small metal tag riveted to the block with the number matching the title VIN number.

Here's my dilemma, I plan to be changing the motor on the truck and I need to make sure there is a valid VIN plate on the truck for law enforcement to check.

Does anyone have legal recommendations on how to remedy this situation?

Thank you in advance.

Alan

You have an easy fix since the engine number matches the paper title. Just contact your local DMV and ask then what to do, it's that easy...

Mike B

yes
I am in the same situation. I called my insurance company(DMV for you) and explained my vin is the engine ser number but I am getting rid of the engine.... They are issuing me a new VIN that will be attached to the truck at the door post.

Thank you Mike B and Skipdow for your replies. I will do as you have both recommended and contact my DMV for further instructions.

Or one could possibly use the numbers stamped on the right front frame rail-might have to have that verified by a local officer, so tag can never get lost, etc.

Ed

Thank you Mike, Skip, and Ed. I went to my local tag agency and they directed me to my local DMV just as you gentlemen have; I had to go there anyway since I couldn't find my title and needed a duplicate printed up. They told me where the local DMV in my area was located, so I'll be heading there later this week.

Thank you for your help.

Alan