C2 - Is it really a 66 427/390

[Rob A.]

Re: C2 - Is it really a 66 427/390

Tom...

If the car has a salvage title as a result of damage, it must have been quite extensive for an insurance company to declare it a loss(repair costs more than worth) and pay off the policy holder. If you decide to procede with it, you should DEFINATELY check out the title. Depending on what state you are in, to obtain a title in your name on a salvage car, there are extensive requirements and tests that need to be passed. Often times, the car must be put back into much better condition than it originally may have been to pass the inspection(s). There's a lot to think about with this car....which I imagine is the reason for what seems like a reasonably low price.

[Rob A.]

Re: C2 - Is it really a 66 427/390

Jim...

In California, they require quite a bit...the inspection fee is only part of it. Any brake components, etc. that may be appear worn must be replaced. A friend of mine got a salvage title for a car recently and was required to replace quite a few componenets. The car basically had to be put back into better condition that it was. It was quite costly. Around $900(parts and labor) for a car that was only worth $1200.

[James G.]

Re: C2 - Is it really a 66 427/390

You are absolutely correct. If there is an out of state salvage title, then the car must go thru a complete "CERTIFIED" Inspection and repair by only a Certified Gold Shield garage. Brakes, lites, Smog control all must be certified. check http://www.dmv.ca.gov/vr/newvehicle.htm for current law.

Now, if you ship it back to Florida on its Chicago title, then only the Florida rules will apply.....and technically you are jumping the California owner AND TITLE as the paperwork shows Chicago to you.

Tell the seller, you want a clean California title AND REGISTRATION in the his, the sellers name. Bet you get a real song and dance.

[Rob A.]

Re: C2 - Is it really a 66 427/390

That's a great idea Jim...

[Tyler T.]

Re: C2 - Is it really a 66 427/390

A car involved in an accident in FL will be classified one of 3 ways.

Clear. IE fixed without major repair work.
Rebuilt. Fixed with major repair damage.
COD Certificate of Destruction. Cannot be reregistered using current vin.

These assignments are made by the insurance compainies and it varies greatly. State Farm is quick to COD a car while some don't do many. I have seen some complete wrecks with clear title mostly where the finance company carries the insurance. (GMAC) In the first two cases the title vin is the same as on the car but the title has rebuilt in case 2. In Fl you can do an ASP, Asembled form parts, car. This involves using major componets from at least 3 cars with accurate records to document where the parts come from and the state assign a new vin. In some stolen cars recoveries the state will assign a new vin.

Tyler

[Tom Howard]

Re: C2 - Is it really a 66 427/390

Jim Rob Dick and others who responded,

I certainly appreciate your comments and suggestions. I think the best thing for me to do is to continue my quest in searching for a 66 or 67 coupe that has a positive heritage that doesn't come with a bunch of baggage!

I am certainly glad that I joined the NCRS! You guys are one of the main reason that the organization is so great! Once again I greatly appreciate your advise, comments and suggestions.

[Steven S.]

Re: C2 - Is it really a 66 427/390

I read a discussion about this car on another site, a person who claims to have looked at the car says that the car has birdcage issues around the door jambs, and the car "has an old repair title out of Illinois and a new registration out of Alabama. As most know, Alabama is where you would go to launder a salvage title". Just thought I'd pass this info along.

[Tom Howard]

Re: C2 - Is it really a 66 427/390

Steve,

Really appreciate your comments. I wasn't able to get that information out of the owner. He just said there was a little bit of surface rust. Should have known better.

Didn't know that about Alabama. That is good info for the future. Once again thanks for your comments.

[Tony Z.]

Re: C2 - Is it really a 66 427/390

Tom,

I recommend you check in with Mr. Gessner and have him assist you with either buying, or having a C2 you wish to purchase inspected. He is a great resource to the Corvette community and was very helpful to me when I had spoken with him in the past. Good luck!