What color should my VIN plate be?
 

Restoring my 85ta body, windshield is off.
The vin plate is pretty rusty, but not rotted. I stripped the rust off, now needs paint.
Unfortunately, every third gen I've had here in NE has a rusty vin plate, some so bad you couldn't read them.
So, what color is it supposed to be? Black or bare metal or what?

Re: What color should my VIN plate be?
 

I am pretty sure it is unpainted. You might want to spray some clear on it so it doesn't rust again.

Re: What color should my VIN plate be?
 

Re: What color should my VIN plate be?
 

^^ This - bare metal. Don't glassbead or sandblast it unless you just want a hand-full of rust. Instead, use navel jelly several times which is non-abrasive. Don't worry about the visable pits you can't do anything about them now.

I wouldn't apply any kind of enamel or laqure clear paint - it will crack and peel-off over time.

I like to use 'M1' by Starrett, the precision toolmaker. Also, Hoppe's Bench Rest lubricating oil with 'Weatherguard' is good. Both are clear, will not yellow or crack and remain somewhat flexable. I've used both products for many years with Very Good results.

Re: What color should my VIN plate be?
 

Great, thanks guys.
No pitting on mine yet, just light surface. I'm just going to acid etch and paint aluminum color, should be close enough.
I'll post a pic when I get a windshield.

Re: What color should my VIN plate be?
 

before acid etching or whatever, try some cider vinegar and let it sit over night. I watched an episode of American Restoration the other night and they mentioned this.

Re: What color should my VIN plate be?
 

:yup:
I saw it too,they said it was the best thing to use.

Re: What color should my VIN plate be?
 

What type of acid are you going to use?

The aluminum paint will look too 'silvery' compared to the factory bare metal. However, its your car.

Re: What color should my VIN plate be?
 

You might... maybe, check with your local authorities, and see what can be done. It might be legal in your area to get a duplicate tag manufactured and have it installed under supervision.

John

Re: What color should my VIN plate be?
 

Never heard of this before John, can you elaborate please.

I do know that if someone builds a 'kit car', the NCDMV will issue a VIN tag and 'eye-ball' you as you install it on the vehicle.

Re: What color should my VIN plate be?
 

The Legality of it is very skeptical, if caught doing it incorrectly, there could be legal fees and Time served if convicted.

Step 1) I would do everything possible to try and restore your TAG, be diligent to clean it up as good as you can.
Step 2) If you have no luck or the tag is too badly rusted, contact some local clubs, see what they know and how you can possibly replace the tag.
Step 3) If it is possible and legal, Find a reproduction VIN tag IE Trimtags.com or http://www.vintagsuk.com.
Step 4) Follow your local and state and federal rules and laws to replace the tag.

In hindsight, I would try to fix what you have to make it as clean as possible. Before going on... I suspect that some cars may have had a nickel plated VIN tag.

John