Re: BigKev's 1954 Packard Clipper Deluxe Sedan

Posted by Hobbs On 2010/10/27 13:24:56

Kev,

Based on the experience I had in Illinois, you will have to take it to the state inspection station.

Basically, from what I understand, they want to ensure that the numbers are matching and that the car exists; furthermore to ensure it is not a compilation of several cars. This is performed, at least in Illinois, regardless of if a person has the title or not; however, this could be different in California.

I do not think that the condition of the car will matter, especially since the car is in the process of restoration.

Maybe you can get right in, but I had to make an appointment roughly 6 weeks ahead.

The fun part with my car was trying to convince the state that the "I" on the firewall was Packard's way of saying "1"

They recorded my engine number, firewall number, theftproof number, steering column number, and frame number.

The other tricky thing you may have to watch out for is for when they run the number. This may not be a problem for your car, but on mine, they had a database that told them that my firewall number had to be in a certain number range. Unfortunately, the number ranges they had in their system were from someones screwed up information. I produced Dave's article and the Packard parts book as proof. All screwed up.

Supposedly this is coming up due to the large number of stolen antique vehicles.

I do not think that they will need to issue you a state vin tag because the car is a factory produced car and not a hot rod/kit car/custom motorcycle.


Good Luck!