Calif. DMV
Thread Starter
|
Tourer
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 277
Likes: 0
From: I'm nation wide
Calif. DMV
If I install a brand new engine with different or no engine numbers in a previoulsy registerd bike, what kind of hassles will I encounter with the California DMV? Anyone know what needs to be done with the man in order to stay right with him?
I think in the long run, it will be cheaper to just buy a new engine rather than have my current cases split, the bottom and top end re-worked to include boring etc. I want to get rid of the whole 103 trip and move to a 127.
Comments are encouraged and welcomed?
BD
I think in the long run, it will be cheaper to just buy a new engine rather than have my current cases split, the bottom and top end re-worked to include boring etc. I want to get rid of the whole 103 trip and move to a 127.
Comments are encouraged and welcomed?
BD
Road Master
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 899
Likes: 10
I'm in So Cal and yes, there could be an issue. On the registration for my custom it has the VIN number (the number off my frame) but it also has the engine number. If you get stopped and they notice your engine number doesn't match the one on your registration there might be a hassle.
I would think if you buy a new motor, or buy a used motor, you'll need to take the MSO (if new) or bill of sale (if used) to the CHP for an inspection as you are now dipping your toe into the custom build world.
But don't panic as it's not all that bad. In California the CHP "inspection" isn't really an inspection at all. It's just a numbers check. When I registered my complete custom build I had to provide the MSOs for my frame, motor, and transmission. The CHP then physically copies those numbers (off the bike itself) and runs them through a stolen parts database. Then they give you the signed off paperwork to take back to the DMV where they issue you the new registration and pink slip.
So in your case they will run your new motor number through that stolen parts database and as long as it doesn't come back hot you're golden. The CHP won't look at anything else, like lights, horn, pipes, or whatnot. However, and this is important, they are still cops and if you pull into the CHP parking lot with something obviously illegal (sky high apes, no mirrors, etc) they could write you up because you're riding it. So if you have anything like that going on just truck or trailer the bike to the CHP station.
In the end a garden variety stop in California on (what I assume) is a rather stock looking Harley won't get you into a situation where a cop will look at your engine numbers. But, you know, if you're at a big event, or run into one of those bike only checkpoints, especially when out of state, it could turn a very simple paperwork thing into a nightmare.
I would think if you buy a new motor, or buy a used motor, you'll need to take the MSO (if new) or bill of sale (if used) to the CHP for an inspection as you are now dipping your toe into the custom build world.
But don't panic as it's not all that bad. In California the CHP "inspection" isn't really an inspection at all. It's just a numbers check. When I registered my complete custom build I had to provide the MSOs for my frame, motor, and transmission. The CHP then physically copies those numbers (off the bike itself) and runs them through a stolen parts database. Then they give you the signed off paperwork to take back to the DMV where they issue you the new registration and pink slip.
So in your case they will run your new motor number through that stolen parts database and as long as it doesn't come back hot you're golden. The CHP won't look at anything else, like lights, horn, pipes, or whatnot. However, and this is important, they are still cops and if you pull into the CHP parking lot with something obviously illegal (sky high apes, no mirrors, etc) they could write you up because you're riding it. So if you have anything like that going on just truck or trailer the bike to the CHP station.
In the end a garden variety stop in California on (what I assume) is a rather stock looking Harley won't get you into a situation where a cop will look at your engine numbers. But, you know, if you're at a big event, or run into one of those bike only checkpoints, especially when out of state, it could turn a very simple paperwork thing into a nightmare.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 6,532
Likes: 132
From: SoCal
Nick explained it very well, I put a 113" evo in an already registered bike to replace a 80" shovelhead, the CHP also wanted to see the old cases with the numbers that were on the current registration at that time. Just call your local CHP and they will tell you what is needed and you won't have to go back a second time in case you are missing something they want.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
knucklehed
General Harley Davidson Chat
12
May 24, 2018 08:28 PM
