1961 VIN Tag

[Gary A.]

I got my car back from paint. Looks great. However,the body shop removed the VIN tag to paint the steering column ( I don't know why)and I am not sure how to properly re-attach. Thanks,Gary

[Mike M.]

Re: 1961 VIN Tag

it was spot welded. get an EXPERT welder to re-attach it to the steering col. good luck, mike

[Roy B.]

Re: 1961 VIN Tag MIKE

Mike! wasn't it "spot" welded

[Mike M.]

Re: 1961 VIN Tag MIKE

isn't that what i typed in Roy? mike

[Dennis C.]

I would suggest...

...enlisting the services of an experienced sheet metal worker, however if the column is in place on the car that may be prolematic. He would have to hit the exact same spots as the factory. That could be a little risky. Think I would simply mask off - 40 grit sand the column and do the same to the back of the VIN tag and JB Weld that sucker back in place using tie-wraps to secure it till the JB cures. Too bad your painter didn't have any masking tape...

[Roy B.]

Re: 1961 VIN Tag MIKE

OK I change my mind again I saw squares not spots.

[John O.]

Re: 1961 VIN Tag

Hi Azarian

Don't even bother trying to spot weld it back. That was GM's biggest mistake cause after awhile the spot weld rusts and you will loose the tag.I lost mine. Use epoxy or JB weld.Clean the steering column down to the bare metal and apply a bead about 1/2" wide and almost the whole length of the tag. Place the tag on and wrap some tape around it to hold it in position till dry. These instructions were told to me by a producer of the tags.If you do it right,the tag will stay on for good and the judges won't see the epoxy.

Good Luck.......John

[Bill W.]

Re: 1961 VIN Tag

My 62 has never fell off yet, but I put some clear duct tape around it just to be sure.(driver)....Bill

[Dennis C.]

Have I ever seen this suggestion before??? *NM*

[Tom D.]

Re: 1961 VIN Tag - Not in NY!

Don't try this in NY state!

See recent article about the guy who removed and changed his Mopar VIN - He's been charged with forgery. See Hemming's Muscle Car magazine (One of the ones with glossy pages). The article says just the removal is a crime in NY.

Tom D.
4889

[Christopher R.]

Re: 1961 VIN Tag

Mine has never fallen off, but I've got a hose clamp around it just in case. Not that it's necessary, but it hides a portion of the number from prying eyes.

If you run into trouble with the authorities with re-attaching the tag or losing the tag, try and make the argument that it isn't a VIN tag, but a serial number tag. In those days the Government didn't have VINs as we understand and use them today. The tag on your car was a serial number tag. It was used for registration purposes. But it's not a VIN. Subtle distinction for people who are not inclined to appreciate subtle distinctions. But it's worth a shot.

[John M.]