Hi:
I've subscribed to this list for a few months, but until now have not
posted. I have, however, learned a great deal and thank you all for that!
Last October I bought a 58 Bugeye from a local man who had done a (nearly)
complete restoration. What's left to do is minor: installing all the chrome,
lighting, choke, accelerator, tach, speedometer cables and a bit more. It
was a great deal, the PO needed to sell as he was moving to another city,
and he priced it for a fast sale. I was lucky enough to get there first. The
car is beautiful (painted in BRG) and he did a quality job.
Here's my problem: The car's registration shows a vehicle number of AN5L636,
which if both the number and my understanding are correct would make this
car No.135 off the line. Alas, the chassis number plate (on the left hand
inner wheel arch) was removed by the PO (I assume) and not replaced after
the car was painted. Ditto for the engine number plate (I assume it is a
948) and for the body number plate on the left hand front door pillar. I
have gone through all the boxes of assorted bits and pieces that came with
the car, but turned up nothing.
A few questions:
- is there any way to verify the vehicle number?
- would it be reasonable to buy a blank plate and have it stamped
with the number on the registration? On faith alone I believe it
to be correct.
- would the gearbox and rear axle numbers help somehow?
- how can I be certain that this engine is a 948? Obviously someone
could have swapped out the original engine over the years.
- should I be concerned about this identification problem, or just
shut up and enjoy the car?
Your thoughts would be appreciated.
Doug Ingram
Victoria BC Canada
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