Restoring an old VW...

[moisme]

What is the name of your state? Florida, Charlotte County

I didn't know which sectin to post under, if I should repost somewhere else please say so, and I apologize.

I bought a VW 2 days ago, which did not have a title. It is in pieces in my driveway (tastefully hidden from public view). The engine is seized, the quarter panels are not secured, the seats are MISSING, among many other things. I bought this car as a project, a hobby, I have restored VW's in the past. (But, they did have title) This car, again is completely NOT DRIVEABLE.

My question is, because I intend to do everything right & legal...

If it is not running, what are my obligations to file for a title/ registration? How quickly, or at what point should I file? Please keep in mind that it is basicly a pile of scrap metal at this time. Also, since it did not have a title, and it is being completely overhauled, is it a different type of title I should seek?

I'm looking at a couple years worth of body off restoration here, but, I bought the car from a guy in another county who had to sell for having too many unregistered cars. Two completely different situations, but do we have to maintain the same standards? I have this one, not in public view. He had many, in his front yard. He was in Ellenton (Manatee county?) I am in Charlotte county.

Thanks for any suggestions, I don't want to do anything illegally, I just want to restore a chunk of scrap back into a car.


~A

[teflon_jones]

You do not need to have the vehicle titled until you plan on driving or insuring it.

[moisme]

Thanks! I wonder why they made him get rid of so many, I guess because there were so many?
Thanks again, I feel better.
~A

[DRTDEVL]

Make sure you take pics along the way of the restoratio in progress... This goes a long way when explaining to the Tax Office about the lapse in registration. You don't need to title or register the vehicle when it is not being driven.

I am in Citrus County (3 hours N of you), and I have an 86 4Runner in the backyard. I am slowly building an engine for it, and will register it when completed. I bought it for cheap with the blown engine, so I will take pics, and send them in with the title and application.

[moisme]

That's a good idea, DRTDEVL, I'd like to document all our hard work, anyway!! Two birds with one stone!!
Thanks,
~A

[dallas702]

Like many places in our nanny state today, you probably have what are called "code enforcement officers". If someone complains that you are blighting the neighborhood, and the ceo (govt. busybody) cites you, then you'll have to show all your documentation (including VIN) to the court. If your neighbors are ok with your project you'll be ignored.

Just watch out for that old biddy with the binoculars 3 blocks away.

Have fun!