Counterfeit Sandmans

[Gaddy]

A bit late in on this, but what if i write my van off, then find another body that has no tags and use it to replace my damaged one! What would the RTA require if i went down the "honest" road and didnt just use my original tags on the replacement body??

[TwoTees]

A bit late in on this, but what if i write my van off, then find another body that has no tags and use it to replace my damaged one! What would the RTA require if i went down the "honest" road and didnt just use my original tags on the replacement body??

Gaddy,
I do not deem myself an expert but I have read a lot about this lately and although I have never actually come across this exact scenario, here is a few possibilities.
1. If you already have the vehicle registered showing the chassis number and the shell was written off (lets assume with out the intervention of an insurance company) you "possibly" may be able to use it but not attach any tags if you could provide proof of ownership. (there are heaps of monaros out there with no tags) The ADR's would default to the chassis, (This would be determined by the engineer) and a surrogate vin may be issued.
2. If you just decide to build a car from parts and the shell has no identification it would not be suitable for rego.
3. If you build it from parts it could be deemed an ICV. (Individually constructed vehicle) and receive a surrogate vin if you can provide evidence of ownership.

Any of these scenarios would be subject to an individual RTA officers judgement.

A lot of what I read talks about proof of ownership of parts used to repair. The big problem is how can you provide proof of ownership when the serial number has been removed. Whatever the case the original identity of the vehicle would be gone.

Basically, once a body shell is not suitable for repair the vehicle identity is finished. Sad, but true.

I personally don't have a problem with re-shelling a vehicle that is registered and loved and in need of repair due to accident damage.
I just hate seeing people buy a rusted, neglected piece of crap, re-birthing it and passing it off as genuine.