On Thu, 4 Dec 1997, Tim Osborne wrote:
> Help is requested from the cognoscenti:
>
> All of the various books I have describe the serial number of my newly
> acquired Sprite MkIV as being on a plate on the inner left hand wheel
> valance. Unfortunately, the PO or someone else (I have no knowledge as I
> bought the car at a public auction) removed this plate, and the motor plate,
> and the bonnet badge. The car is in far too good a shape for a reasonable
> owner to have removed them for a quick buck; maybe something shady happened.
> The boot lock had been forcibly (but not completely destructively) opened,
> so I suspect it was vandalized by someone knowledgeable.
>
> Q1:
> At any rate, the VIN number on the previous (legal) title matches a number I
> found on the chassis, except for the leading H present on the title but
> absent from the chassis. This number is stamped on a frame member near the
> front right damper (I'm literally 400 miles from the car right now, forgive
> my inexactness). This location is never mentioned in the books - is it
> reasonable to assume this number would/should match the little valance
> plate? Is this frame number only on some obscure knockoff, and I've been
> had? It is apparently a valid number with all the correct codes, not a
> paint code or anything like that.
To my knowledge, the VIN should not be stamped into the car anywhere.
Stamped numbers are usually body numbers which differ from the VIN. I
would have to check books (or my car) at home to see what # (if any)
should be stamped near the right damper.
I would be tempted to just go with what you have if the DMV doesn't mind
it.
> Q2:
> Can I get a reproduction plate that I can have stamped and reattach to the
> left valance? Is there a database somewhere that would tell me what the
> engine plate number should have been for this particular car?
Yes, but I don't remember where. Others on this list do.
> Q4:
> Finally, is there a source of bonnet badges less cheesy than the China-made
> plastic one I got from one of the usual suppliers? I would imagine the
> original was something more substantial.
I think the original was just as plasticy and cheesy. I couldn't believe
it either.
> tim, a completely obsessed new LBC fan
Welcome to the club!
Ulix __/__,__
.......................................................... (_o____o_)....
'67 Sprite
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