How much can be changed before VIN means nothing?
 

I have noticed that on many of the classic cars you can now basically build them from scratch. There are full chassis, bodies, sheet metal, the works...

So, how much can you change on a car before the VIN does't mean anything; or, how do you register a car built completely from scratch, does it count as a kit car? What affect does this have on insurance, etc.?

I work building custom handguns and we can change every part except the serialized frame before it counts as a new handgun and has to be registered again. How does it work with cars; is there any particular part that can't be changed without getting a new VIN?

The VIN means everything. Usually as long as the VIN is in the proper location and installed properly (with the proper rivets) you are in good shape.

Theoretically you could install the existing dash in a brand new shell and as long as the VIN plate wasn't disturbed and you have the title you would be legal. I am sure there are people who go further than that reguarly.

Great question -- but I think the answer lies within each STATE... as they all seem to have differing requirements for attaining a title - IF you don't already have one.

I have a buddy - that is just finishing his 90 # Carbon Fiber body '57 Corvette on a tube chassis he built.. LS7 motor... and WASHINGTON STATE is giving him fits over trying to attain a title. There's no VIN to start with - and no MSO since it's all "home built".

Greg,
no real easy way to do it

So it is the VIN plate in the dash that matters most?

What is you build a custom dash, can the VIN plate be reinstalled in the new dash properly and still usually be able to be registered?

I've heard of people cutting out the part of the dash with the VIN plate and welding it into another dash. Also, if you can get your hands on the proper rivets you could probably make it fly also.

Like Greg said, it depends on your state. If your state does not require a police inspection you can probably get away with a little more. If your state does require an inspection it should probably look like the factory put the VIN where it is.

If we are talking about older cars, (70's and older) there are fewer places on the car where there are hidden VINs. On my 67 Camaro for example, part of the VIN is stamped into the top of the cowl under the wiper panel. The engine, trans and rear end, were they original, would also carry part of the vehicle VIN. I am not aware of any other hidden or confidential VINs.

I would be careful. Re-using a vin tag in another vehicle is considered a cloned vehicle/retag. If your state requires an inspection, it is not very hard for the inspecting officer to find a hidden vin to verify the vehicles identity.

This is a tough topic. The definition of the major defining part of a car varies state to state. Some states might not allow the removal of the VIN tag for any reason, or for example to rebody a 69 Camaro using a dynacorn body.