Kirkhams in Canada.

[cycleguy55]

Originally Posted by ClassicMustang

While we don't sell the components you will need to complete the starter kit, we can refer you to US and Canadian sources to purchase the requisite "donor parts". This isn't anything new, and it is perfectly legal.

There is NO REQUIREMENT to purchase donor parts from Canadian sources. Because of NAFTA, you can order parts from the US or Canada to complete the project, and be exempt from import duty except for GST and PST. (Note, there is no PST in Alberta.)

With all due respect, that is at odds with the published information from Transport Canada. Here's a quote from Transport Canada's Web site FAQs (https://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/motorvehicl...04-faq-689.htm) on that very issue:

Q. 11. The system requires a car kit (starter kit) hobbyist to get parts to complete the car in Canada. Is it legal to buy parts in Canada that have been imported, such as parts from a dealer's parts counter?

A. A hobby builder may NOT import, or have a third party import the parts needed to complete the car. These parts must be bought from a source in Canada not linked to the kit manufacturer. [emphasis mine]

It certainly seems draconian to me, and your experience may be different, but I know those in Saskatchewan responsible for inspecting and approving kit cars / starter kits follow the guidance shown above. The manager of the branch responsible for the approval process here told me directly they have had situations where the owner / builder didn't follow the rules and was required to either export the car or destroy it. He didn't say it, but presumably it could also have been exported to another province more flexible on the rules or, alternatively, used solely for competition where it would not have to be licensed.

[ClassicMustang]

The intent of Transport Canada (TC) is to allow the construction of a home built vehicle. The starter kits we send to Canada consist of a specific list of items that collectively represent an assortment of components, and not an "automobile" as defined by TC.

We solicit and receive from TC an interpretation of the items we include in a starter kit, and a written opinion on whether they feel it constitutes a vehicle. Eligibility for import comes from TC based on those items included. Prohibited items are numerous.

The balance of the components required to complete a kit car can be purchased in Canada from a variety of resources. In many cases, those commercial resources in Canada purchase their components from a manufacturer or distributor in the US. Canadian auto dealers, auto parts warehouses, bone yards, and other Canadian automotive related retailers are the primary source for both Canadian and US built components. However, it is not categorically illegal to buy an auto part directly from the US and import it into Canada to complete the kit. And except for PST (if applicable in your province) and GST, the parts are duty free.

Here is what Transport Canada has to say:

"Q. 13. What if certain parts of the "prohibited" systems cannot be sourced in Canada, but are absolutely essential to the uniqueness of the kit?

A. Transport Canada believes that if a kit is really designed, and is actually being used, as a starter kit to amateur build a car in Canada, such parts would not be absolutely essential.

However, some kits are very basic. They may only contain a bare body shell with a windshield, some door hinges and latches, and a bare frame. In these very basic kits that are far from the definition of 'vehicle' there may sometimes be room for such items as a particular suspension piece or a fuel cell." (emphasis is mine.)

None of the Shelby CSX starter kits have any suspension components, or steering, brakes, fuel system components, etc. As you read above, Transport Canada uses suspension components and fuel cell as examples of admissible items from the US.

The parts required to finish these cars are readily available in Canada. We encourage our Canadian customers to source them locally, however not all of the required pieces may be readily available north of the border. TC has a provision for that, and no approval from TC is necessary to import individual parts.

[cycleguy55]

ClassicMustang:

With regard to the parts required to turn a starter kit into an assembled vehicle and considering TC's 'official' position / response to questions 11 & 13 together, I'd summarize it this way:

1. The builder is required to source any 'readily available' parts in Canada; and
2. Parts essential to the uniqueness of the kit which cannot be sourced in Canada may be imported, subject to prior approval by TC.

Would this be consistent with your understanding?

[ClassicMustang]

I would agree in part with your statement, however, there is no prior approval required to import auto parts into Canada.

In the unlikely event that TC decides to audit the construction of your kit car, it is important to keep records and receipts documenting where the components were purchased.

Practically speaking, if you can locate it in Canada, buy it there. If you can't, buy it from the US.