Kit car registration, donor cars and matching numbers

[Redmax]

I've ordered a Westfield 11 kit this week, but I'm paranoid about the need to avoid a Q plate (it's just the way I feel about Q plates, we don't need to debate that here as I'm resolute about it).

Let's assume I need to use the engine from the donor Midget as one of the major components to justify an age-related plate. Let's also assume that after 45+ years it's had a replacement engine, and let's assume that the new engine hasn't been recorded on the V5 so the numbers don't match.

Is that numbers mismatch going to be an issue in terms of retaining an age-related plate? Could I just get the V5 updated with the new engine number before I relinquish the donor V5 as during the re-registration process?

Thanks

Jason

[battered]

I dunno, but I do know that you can Dremel off an engine number and buy a stamp set to put a new number on. Obviously I'm not recommending this as a route to satisfaction but it could help your argument that this is just a Midget special. Good luck.

[AdiT]

Send in the v5 and have it changed. Worst case DVLA might ask for confirmation that it's actually been fitted and request a letter/form from a garage to confirm. They are suspicious if putting an engine in that would lead to a lower tax band or fitting a newer engine that would then allow the use of the v5 as proof of engine age to attain easier emission test (ie. sticking a post 95 zetec in) but in your case they probably won't bother. If they do just find a friendly garage.

[Steve_D]

My understanding is that DVLA do not like the last minute change to a donor and may refuse to accept it for your age related.
I was told this came from the number of Cortinas that suddenly had V8 engines fitted just before they became a Cobra kitcar.

Is your engine number stamped into the block or a riveted plate with the engine number.
In either case the top face of the block may need machining during its refurb in which case the number would be machined away. The number would then need stamping back onto the newly machined surface.

Steve

[Redmax]

Thanks chaps. I think I'll still try and find a donor with matching numbers, just to be safe, but reapplying an engine number after a rebuild might be an option too.