Possible Stolen engine

[ahpook]

I recently purchased an old Dune buggy from an estate. The car had been in the garage of a house that was being sold for at least 35 years. It was a 1957 Volkswagen Bug chassis a fiberglass dune buggy body. It was last registered in California in 1977. It was build by the original owner who died 30 years ago. I went to register it at DMV and they checked the VIN on the body but said I need to take it to CHP to verify the engine VIN because they could not find the engine VIN. The engine is apparently a 1968 Volkswagen engine and CHP found the engine number. Unfortunitly they said there is evidence that someone tried to change it. They could not determine if it was stolen but impounded the car and said a court date will be set. I am not sure what I can do other than show that I purchased it from someone legitimately. The original owner did own a wrecking yard. I don't think he would have stolen an engine but maybe this is something that ended up in his yard that he knew he could not sell.

Can anyone give me any advise on what to do or expect from this. CHP said that they may confiscate the engine and give me the car back without it.

[oestek]

More government nonsense. Sorry to hear about your hassle.

[kochevy67]

If possible I would get in touch with the individual who wold you the buggy and inform him of your situation. I would ask him to refund the cash, and tell him you will buy it as long as it is cleared by the DMV. Unfortunately this happens quite often, although usually with retagged cars that are sold to unsuspecting buyers. I don't know how the laws are in Ca. but in Il. you can file a report for DEceptive Practice/Fraud. The only issue is proving knowledge that he knew the engine was stolen. Then again according to your post the DMV is not exactlyt sure either. Either way good luck.