[UKjohnnycobra]

Thanks for the replies guys...

I live in Brewster NY which ia about 40 mins from Elmsford. I doubt if I can relocate my case to a different centre as i was assigned to Elmsford by Albany. Also (stupid me, mr innocent I had a handful of receipts so I thought I was home and dry) I already told the investigating officer that the engine/tranny are used units (not crate) so I probably can't go back and change my mind. Further problem, I bought the engine over a year ago and the Sunoco station has now changed hands, so I can't even speak to them. I'll look for Unique numbers at the weekend. The investigators said they couldn't find any and I suppose they know where to look. If that doesn't work, I'm f*cked I think. But at least with some of the information you have given me I might be able to challenge them. Nicely of course

I know this is getting a bit detailed but:

If I have to trace a salvaged engine back to original VIN, can that donor car still be on the road? ie if my neighbor puts a new/rebuilt engine in his Mustang, can I use his old one? Or will they then go back to him an demand to see the paperwork on his new engine and just pass the problem on to him

Could I put in some old clunker engine for the registration and then replace it with my good one after I get a VIN? Is the engine number ever checked after registration (ie for inspection)

mrmustang, how can I tell if the engine is a C block or J block?
Thanks again to all of you I really appreciate your help!!

John