Finally, after waiting 3 weeks and making a couple of phone calls, I received a fax today from the Pennsylvania DMV stating that they did not retain motor vehicle records past 10 years. I had sent their required fee, via USPS overnight delivery, in hopes of finding some history on my fully loaded 1967 big block air coupe. I already knew, from the owner I purchased it from last month, that he had purchased it from a Mr. Roman Chodak in Philadelphia in August 1984. Mr. Chodak had reportedly purchased it from the original owner at Carlisle in the late 70's and then did a complete frame off restoration in 1979. The information from the DMV did indicate that Mr. Chodak had lived at 2126 Robbins Ave. in Philly when the car was last registered to him. However, the DMV stated that they did not have any information prior to that. Does anyone have any suggestions as to how I can go further back in the PA vehicle registration history? Unfortunately, the car does not have the tank sticker, as it was probably removed during the restoration of maybe had fallen off prior to that. The car is Marlboro Maroon, black vinyl, shoulder harness, headrest seats, all power, tinted glass, real side exhaust car, 427-390, transistor ignition, may have had original bolt ons at one time. Does anyone remember the car or Mr. Chodak? Thanks in advance for any help or suggestions anyone can offer. Rex Turner NCRS #8089
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Re: Pennsylvania DMV
Rex,
I live in Pittsburgh and I purchased my car from the second Pa owner in 1975. All the owners, including me owned the car in Pennsylvania. Sometime in the '80's when it became "desirable" to find previous owners of Corvettes, I tried to get information from the Pa DMV about the names of the two previous owners of my car. They wrote back and told me that they had lost all their archived information in a flood in the capital district of Harrisburg sometime in the 1970's. Living in Pa I did recall that flood. I believe it was caused by Hurricane Camile, but I don't remember the year. Unfortunately, you have hit the dead end that many others have with the State of Pa.. Your best bet is to find Mr. Chodak and talk to him. Hopefully, he will have some information to help document your car. -
Re: Pennsylvania DMV
Try an internet telephone search. There are 3 people in Phil. with the last name Chodak. Maybe one is a relative. Worth the calls.Comment
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Re: Pennsylvania DMV
I used the internet and was able to find the original owner of my 1970 BB. The original owner had a common name, however by using the internet I was able to find him. I had a few non-productive calls in the process but it was worth the effort.Comment
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Re: Pennsylvania DMV
Thanks to all for your help. Sounds as if I may indeed have hit the dreaded "dead end". Not the first time it's happened. Thanks again to each of you. RexComment
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