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Posted by Paul Cook - in Kempner, Texas on Sunday, March 16, 2008 at 16:00:39 :
In Reply to: wtb. frame for a 1953 ffpw posted by dave on Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 15:18:38 :
Usually, when one says, "restoring" the intention is to get maximum value for a "back to original" vehicle. In most cases, this requires that the title and the frame number match. On the other hand, if you are just building a "shiny" Power Wagon, you will probably end up getting a builder title with a state assigned number and not worry about having a title for the frame.
Prior to the late '40's, some states used only the motor number for registration, but many of those states still recorded the frame number on the title documents.
If restoring to "original" you may want to check this out. Usually the state has a procedure to incorporate the frame number in an updated title.
Important? Say I have an old title and kept it when I sold the truck. Maybe the truck has had several owners. I learn that you have spent a lot of money and time rebuilding "my" truck - based on my title and the frame number. Here I come with the sheriff and pick up my truck. I know of cases where this has happened. With a good lawyer and enough witnesses the guy got his truck back, but it cost him for a lawyer and court fees.
Your state department of motor vehicles web site can answer the question. Don't accept the answer from a local registration clerk or from some forum visitor who lives many states away from you. There is only one proper source for checking this out.