NY Registration Advice

VJP · #1 (**permalink**) 04-17-2006, 06:11 PM

Hi,
I am a new Cobra owner and need some assistance...
Can anyone assist me with the details for registering a Cobra that was purchased out of state. The car is a Shell Valley replica that was built in 2002. It was registered in North Carolina as a 2002. What if any issues will I have when I register this vehicle in New York State (I have title, registration as well as all the paperwork from Shell Valley)? Included with the car is an emissions exemption certificate from the sata of North Carolina. will I have emission issues in NY?...Any assistance would be greatly appreciated...
thanks

JCoop · #2 (**permalink**) 04-23-2006, 06:27 PM

All you need is the transferred registration or title from out of state, a copy of the bill of sale. The car will then be registered as a 2002; which will require emissions inspections and a OBD II plug. Problem.
I think you'll have to go through the process of registering a homemade or homebuilt vehicle. http://www.nydmv.state.ny.us/homemade.htm

Good luck. There are a few NY cobraphiles that have gone through the process and can walk you through. I'm going through the process myself, although a slightly different case as my car is already registered in NY State.

Jim Kellogg · #3 (**permalink**) 04-23-2006, 07:20 PM

I took my SPF through the NYS "custom" registration process last year. It is not a difficult process - just time consuming. Got different answers to my registration and titling questions at the local DMV, depending upon who I talked to.... called Albany at the number listed in the above link and hooked up with someone who stayed with me through the whole process and was very helpful.

I recommend calling Albany at the number above, and ask them the best way to properly title your Shell Valley in NYS. It is worth the time to do it right.

If I can be of any assistance, let me know.
Jim Kellogg
Elmira, NY

JCoop · #4 (**permalink**) 04-24-2006, 05:29 AM

Hi Jim,

Was your SPF already registered when you did this? I ask because mine is, and I'm at least able to drive it while I go through the process. Also, I was advised to take the car to the inspection station in a trailer to avoid any raised edyebrows with the inspection agents. I sent form 272-1 in but have not gotten a response.

Ray

Jim Kellogg · #5 (**permalink**) 04-24-2006, 06:00 PM

Ray,
I had put a few miles on my SPF with dealer tags prior to going through the NYS DMV process. It had not been registered prior.

I agree that you should trailer your Cobra to the state inspection facility.

It will probably take a few weeks for you to get the forms back. Once I got the forms back, I set an appointment to have the vehicle inspected for a NYS VIN. You will need receipts (and serial numbers) for the engine, trans and vehicle (probably will be an MSO from SPF). The DMV people checked the car and serial numbers over (to make sure no stolen parts), and then affixed a NYS VIN sticker.

Had to change to amber front lenses, add a 4way flasher and backup light on mine. Depending on the Inspector, you may or may not have to do all that.

If you already haven't talked to someone in Albany, I would recommend making the phone call. That way, you can make sure you are going through the correct steps for YOUR situation. Also, you will have someone in Albany "looking" for you paperwork that already knows your situation.

You can email me offline for more info if you think it will help....

hope this helps,
Jim Kellogg
Elmira, NY

Slojo · #6 (**permalink**) 04-24-2006, 06:17 PM

You guys are making me nervous here. I wonder if I am driving my SPF illegally. I bought mine used from out of state and had a title and bill of sale. DMV in Amityville issued me a new registration on the spot once I got the insurance papers cleared up (something about a zero vs. an 'O' in the vin #). I should note that my registration and title, both new and old are for a '65. Not sure if that makes a difference or not. Any thoughts?

Thanks.
Joe S. Lake Grove-LI

Jim Kellogg · #7 (**permalink**) 04-24-2006, 07:08 PM

Joe,
You shouldn't have a problem if your SPF was properly registered in the original state it was built (just my opinion, though).

The only problem I see is that both your registration and title say it is a 1965. It "probably" isn't a 1965. The MSO for your SPF should show the actual date of manufacture for the roller, and it was probably actually completed (with engine and trans) later. If the VIN listed on the title and registration for your SPF is actually from "another" scrapped/wrecked 1965 vehicle, you will have a problem, sooner or later...

The process I am referring to (NYS "custom" vehicle registration) is the only way to go if you are building/registering a newly completed cobra (SPF or otherwise) in NYS. Do it properly now, and you won't get "bit" later.

Jim Kellogg
Elmira, NY

Slojo · #8 (**permalink**) 04-24-2006, 08:24 PM

Thanks. Very doubtful my 'assigned' VIN is from a previously scrapped car. You have to see it to understand. Perhaps one of these Sat. I will be able to get down to Nick's and meet everyone. One of these sunny days.

Thanks
Joe S. Lake Grove-LI

JCoop · #9 (**permalink**) 04-26-2006, 07:26 PM

[quote=Jim Kellogg]Ray,
I had put a few miles on my SPF with dealer tags prior to going through the NYS DMV process. It had not been registered prior.

I agree that you should trailer your Cobra to the state inspection facility.

It will probably take a few weeks for you to get the forms back. Once I got the forms back, I set an appointment to have the vehicle inspected for a NYS VIN. You will need receipts (and serial numbers) for the engine, trans and vehicle (probably will be an MSO from SPF). The DMV people checked the car and serial numbers over (to make sure no stolen parts), and then affixed a NYS VIN sticker.

Had to change to amber front lenses, add a 4way flasher and backup light on mine. Depending on the Inspector, you may or may not have to do all that.

If you already haven't talked to someone in Albany, I would recommend making the phone call. That way, you can make sure you are going through the correct steps for YOUR situation. Also, you will have someone in Albany "looking" for you paperwork that already knows your situation.

>><<

Thanks Jim, I just received the response letter from Field Investigations and it said to take the vehicle to the inspection station in West Babylon. I'm surprised and quite delighted that it seems they have skipped a step (the form that you have to list all the parts, SN#s, DOT numbers for the lights, lenses, etc.). Now I had reached out to my friends at the NYPD auto crimes unit when all this happened and they made a call to Albany. The Investigator I spoke to told me about the call and said he'd attach a "memo" to my case number. Maybe they're extending a special courtesy to my case?
So, the letter says to take the letter to the inspection station. "The vehicle must be capable of passing the NYS safety inspection and all repairs must be complete including missing and damaged parts. If the vehicle is deemed unsafe, it will not be examined..." ...and that it may cost up to $50 for "replacement ID numbers"

Additionally, my car is now described as: 1966 Custom, VIN: SPO1052

I have ordered a hazard warning light switch kit from Victoria British, and I have a reverse light that I can hang off the rear jackposts. I may have to wire them up too

I was also advised to remove the visors as they are not padded. I have those new silver bulbs that flash amber under clear lenses up front. Do you think I should change to amber lenses?

Wish me luck! (May 5 is the appointed date)

JCoop · #10 (**permalink**) 04-26-2006, 07:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Slojo

You guys are making me nervous here. I wonder if I am driving my SPF illegally. I bought mine used from out of state and had a title and bill of sale. DMV in Amityville issued me a new registration on the spot once I got the insurance papers cleared up (something about a zero vs. an 'O' in the vin #). I should note that my registration and title, both new and old are for a '65. Not sure if that makes a difference or not. Any thoughts?

Thanks.
Joe S. Lake Grove-LI

Joe, I think you're OK. Just don't do any more transactions with DMV except renewal by mail or online. Forget about vanity plates. That's what flagged my car. If all information matches between registration and insurance card, you're golden.

Jim Kellogg · #11 (**permalink**) 04-26-2006, 07:46 PM

Great news, Ray
You should remove the visors (sorry, forgot about that - I did too), as NYS requires the visors to be padded if they are on the vehicle.

I was told I had to change to amber lenses (I originally had amber bulbs under clear lenses). I got my amber lenses from Finish Line.

I mounted my reverse light to a bracket/tab underneath that looks like it might be for mounting the undercar exhaust on the roadsters. If I remember right, I think the switch on the trans completes the ground for the circuit - there should be a power wire hidden in the harness in the trunk. If you are not sure, give your dealer a call, ot let me know and I will check it out.

From my experience, if there IS a concern with your car during the actual inspection, they will tell you exactly what you need to do to comply with the regulations. All the DMV people I dealt with during the process with my car, and another SPF, were very helpful.

May 5 - that's also the day we should be closing on the new house! Be sure to let us know how it goes!!!
Jim Kellogg 887
Elmira, NY

JCoop · #12 (**permalink**) 05-01-2006, 06:32 AM

My date is coming up fast; I think I'm going to try and borrow a pair of amber lenses from Bill O. or from Nick. I don't feel like springing for $80 a pair just for the inspection if I can help[ it.

Also, what about hazard lights? Jim, did they ask for those? I have the kit and if I have to wire it in, I'm going to make it permanent. Otherwise, I'm leaving it out.

Thanks

ERA-FIA · #13 (**permalink**) 05-01-2006, 07:55 AM

Jim, when you filled out the paper work for the Tech. reviewer what did you do where it askes about a padded dash?

Thanks Joe

Trueoo7 · #14 (**permalink**) 05-02-2006, 08:36 PM

Let me ask a stupid question here. Since the car was titled and registered in North Carolina, that wasn't good enough for NY state. So is it correct to assume that when the car is titled and registered in NY, that won't mean anything, if the car gets sold to someone in say... Virginia. Once the car has been put through the rigors of the DMV computers for stolen parts why does it have to go through this time and time again. Sounds like just another legal way to rip the public off AGAIN.

JCoop · #15 (**permalink**) 05-03-2006, 06:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Trueoo7

Let me ask a stupid question here. Since the car was titled and registered in North Carolina, that wasn't good enough for NY state. So is it correct to assume that when the car is titled and registered in NY, that won't mean anything, if the car gets sold to someone in say... Virginia. Once the car has been put through the rigors of the DMV computers for stolen parts why does it have to go through this time and time again. Sounds like just another legal way to rip the public off AGAIN.

The NC registration is good, and don't think there is no issue with NC papers. Once a car is registered in NYS, it is usually good, especially after it's been through the rigors of a NYDMV-mandated examination by the Field Investigations Dept.
The current crackdown is apparently happening entirely for a different reason, having to do with a slew of cars fraudulently titled and registered in Georgia and/or Tennesee, then transferred and registered in NY, California, etc. as '65 and '66 Fords and stupid valuations of under $500 to evade sales tax. These VINS were uncovered during the investigation and prosecution of principals of "Titles Unlimited", sometime 2001-02.(another story completely) The law eventually catches up...trying to get the taxes that they think is due them.
My understanding is that there are about 150 cars flagged, including CSX and SPO VINS and you won't know it until you try to do a transaction with DMV.

Slojo · #16 (**permalink**) 05-04-2006, 08:50 AM

I paid the full tax when I registered, so hopefully I won't be flagged. Interestingly enough, I purchased my car (SPF 1421) from a gent in TN.

Good Luck Ray, keep us posted.

JCoop · #17 (**permalink**) 05-04-2006, 01:57 PM

Thanks, Joe.
My appointment is at 1:30 and Bill O. will also be there with a client's newly-completed SPF at 2:30, also for an examination. Then another SPF (don't know who) is due in at 3:30.

I did get the amber lenses, and hooked up the hazard flasher switch. I'm swinging by Nick's so he can check SPF1052 out before the exam.

JCoop · #18 (**permalink**) 05-05-2006, 05:21 PM

Actually, it was not a big deal. I went to the DMV inpection station. The office reception area has 3 doors, 1 to the restroom, 1 for employees only with window shades shut tight, and another with a mail slot and signs saying "Insert appointment letter ONLY here —> "

I was called and told to unload (from the trailer) and drive into the garage area, and onto a lift. Open the engine bay, please wait up front. The young lady inspector was pleasant enough, clearly glad it was Friday, and the male assistant complimented me on the Cobra. After about 20 minutes, waiting with a bunch of nervous guys who were there for inspection of salvaged vehicles, I was called and shown to my car, handed an approved copy of the 272-1 form, and shown where the new VIN or ID number was. When she saw my face of dismay, she immediately explained that there was no other place to put it; she had placed it on top of the dash on the driver's side, as far into the windshield as possible. Normally, they would place it on the door jamb or sill, she explained, but the Cobra has a very small door jamb and also, it has to be clearly visible. Oh well, it's yellow and very visible, but they left the SPF chassis # plate intact in the engine bay., so that was good.

So, she said she had already faxed a copy to Albany, and that I should be getting a letter or a call with the form VS103 (approval for registration) and something about another inspection for "safety". Now, I'm not sure if she meant the NYS safety inspection, or another inspection for the DOT/SAE compliance, etc. I had already prepared the car for all that, i.e. hazard lights, reverse lamp, etc. but I don't think they even looked at those today. I think they just checked out the engine, transmission, and differential/driveshaft, and checked it against their list of stolen part numbers.

Well, I'm relieved, and interestingly, my car is now known as a "1966 Custom". So we wait for this call or this VS103 form or letter for the final inspection. Upon reading the NYDMV pamphlet about this, the next logical step is really just the approval letter, a NYS safety inspection, and together with my approved VIN application form 272-1, take these 3 items and proof of ownership (the old registration) I should be good to go.

Slojo · #19 (**permalink**) 05-05-2006, 06:41 PM

So you still need to wait untill you can 'officially' register it and legally drive it on the street, correct?

Just curious, just in case I need to do this...

Jim Kellogg · #20 (**permalink**) 05-05-2006, 06:42 PM

Ray,
Glad to hear everything went well!

Sorry I didn't reply to your earlier posts (been tied up quite a bit the last week and missed your posts).

You will have to have a NYS Safety Inspection done by your local inspection station/repair shop. After that, sounds like you will be good to go!!!

The NYS process is not nearly as bad as Calif, just time-consuming. Everyone I dealt with at the state (one exception) was very helpful in guiding me through the process. And it is done correctly.

My (ugly) BRIGHT YELLOW vin sticker was placed on the body opening of the driver door. It is wrinkled from being applied over a compound curve, but is not visible with the door closed. I would have preferred to have it somewhere else, but the DMV people had the final say where it goes.

Hopefully, your experience will encourage others in NYS to follow your lead.
Jim Kellogg
Elmira, NY