When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
There is no way to get a replacement VIN tag. The tag is affixed on the assembly line when the dash is put together.
The only way to get to the tag is to remove the windshield to clean the tag or to remove the entire dash assembly. The tag should be riveted on and if an LEO happens to look at the tag and it appears that it has been removed and replaced, he may want to ask lots of questions.
There is no way to get a replacement VIN tag. The tag is affixed on the assembly line when the dash is put together.
The only way to get to the tag is to remove the windshield to clean the tag or to remove the entire dash assembly. The tag should be riveted on and if an LEO happens to look at the tag and it appears that it has been removed and replaced, he may want to ask lots of questions.
They use special rivets so removal isn't an option. Even cleaning it up can attract attention. I've a friend who sprayed his with a clear gloss urethane and while it looked great, being so shiny caused suspicions that it wasn't genuine.
I have the same thing on my '85. In my state if a car is bought out of state a LEO has to come and do a visual check of the VIN, and run it through NCIC. When the VIN comes back clean they sign off on the registration paper and you can register the car. A friend of mines father is a LEO so he came over and did the inspection for me. I asked him what I could do about the rusty VIN. He said it wasn't a problem he sees it from time to time especially on older convertibles. He said whatever you do don't try to clean it in any way that can cause a whole lot of headaches.
My 86 was rusty and when the windshield was replaced I used a dremel with a soft wire wheel attachment and then sprayed a light coat of clear on it. I would have to say no one would have ever known after that was done. Looked factory.
Yeah those special rivets can be acquired in many ways. 30 yrs ago I worked on an assembly line, a co-worker of mine would steal the rivets and sell em. I didnt ask questions, and didnt get involved.
VIN's are a very touchy issue. They are installed with special rivets and any alteration is readily visible. It is better to leave it alone rather than cleanining it up or altering it in any way.
VIN's are in many different areas of cars. They are printed on the engine, transmission, and other areas of vehicles; called hidden vin's. Depending on the make, model, and type of vehicle, they are placed in different areas. Many police officers know of the vin locations by refering to the NATB VIN manual which gives the specific meanings of vin #'s, vin locations, etc.
If it doesn't look factory, or factory with some aging, it appears suspicious.