Re: Frame Numbers/Titles

Posted by Fred Murphy on July 25, 1998 at 11:45:07

In Reply to: Frame Numbers/Titles
posted by Todd D on July 25, 1998 at 09:47:47

: Last year I bought a '30 roadster which I found in an ad in Hemmings.I had the car shipped in from Colorado and it was rough but basically complete. I got notorized paperwork and have obtained all the legal paper work in my state with no problems. ( Bill of sale stated: registered numbers "on frame by steering gear"
: After gathering parts and much body work, I finally got around to removing the body for a ground up job.The numbers on my frame are not the same as those on all my paperwork.The motor number is different also.
: Before I get all cranked up and give the lawyers much money to resolve this problem, I need some advise from experienced ModelA people as to the conventional viewpoint on the fidelity of frame numbers. One national club's magazine has an add every month for number punch sets to apply Model A identification numbers.Is it a common practice for restorer's to alter numbers to match the paperwork they were able to obtain when they bought their projects?
: I'm feeling a little nervous about putting a lot more money in this project until I somehow resolve this problem.
: Would appreciate any wisdom and advice from the Model A folks.
Todd,
Welcome to the wonderful world of A's! First,I'd like to comment on your lack of researching the hobby and understanding what you are getting involved in.Invest in a few good books writen on the restoration of the A.A good restoration will require considerable help wheather you do the work yourself or have a restoration shop do it.I don't believe it is considered common practice to alter a frame number or engine number,but as you pointed out it probably can be done.
The A is composed of three basic units.A body(no numbers stamped)frame with number and an engine with another number.Over a 69 year period a lot can and did happen to a typical A . Accidents could require the replacement of frames,engines and or body.Engine failure obviously would result in change of numbers.Deteriation and metal fatigue could result in changes of any of the components.Read and Research before you call a lawyer or you may pay him enough for him to buy a restored A. Try talking to the person you purchased the "project"from first.The best advice I can give is READ-READ-READ before you do anything.
Best of Luck

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