Question about VIN numbers.

[Roguetek]

When stamping at new VIN plate for a replacement frame, does anyone happen to know the size and font needed to stamp them correctly?

[kthutchinson]

You'll probably find the answer in 49 CFR 565 (http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/granule/CFR...nt-detail.html). Download the PDF file.

[20774]

You'll probably find the answer in 49 CFR 565

Would this apply to a German produced bike? In terms of VIN numbers stamped on engines, they have varied all over the map in terms of size, serif, etc.

[kthutchinson]

The requirements in 49 CFR 565 apply to all vehicles imported into the US for sale, regardless of where they are produced. However, they probably wouldn't apply to a grey market vehicle (one not originally produced for sale in the US).

VIN requirements only apply to the number stamped on the chassis. They do not apply to part numbers like an engine serial number.

[20774]

That said, the requirements leave quite a bit of room to move. It states that the letters should be a minimum of 4mm high (so 17mm would be OK??) and the type face is sanserif (Calibri, Tahoma, Arial, ???). Mostly the requirements seem to focus on the 17-digit VIN, which only the later model Airheads have. Even if one considers just the 7 digits, it's not very clear what one would do here.

[cycleman2]

When stamping at new VIN plate for a replacement frame, does anyone happen to know the size and font needed to stamp them correctly?

Check with your local state authorities. They should be able to tell you what they want.

[Roguetek]

the local state authorities want me to throw a brand new, never-been-used BMW factory replacement frame into a trash compactor, because it doesn't have a VIN plate on it.

But if it has a VIN on it, I can get a bonded title, regardless of where that VIN came from. Texas law is remarkably stupid on this point, and several statutes actively contradict each other.

[Omega Man]

Mostly all this has to do with stolen motor vehicles and the procedure that is used to not make it easy for someone to make something legitimate that isn't. All of this kind of situation varies from state to state. If you happen to know someone in law enforcement that has access to the real info when this has happened before, you have a chance. If you have the number from the old frame you should be able to copy that to the new frame especially if the old frame has the block font. The newer vehicles use a system that is not easily duplicated and a good way to check this is to check the VIN on your car (drivers side cowl @ lower windshield).
All of this is for the protection of the next owner, to slow the proliferation of stolen vehicles, insurance company's re-insuring a wreck or total as new, tax/exise............It's nothing personal, it's just happening to you personally. OM

Roguetek

the local state authorities want me to throw a brand new, never-been-used BMW factory replacement frame into a trash compactor, because it doesn't have a VIN plate on it.