Author Topic: VIN Number Decode (Read 4514 times)

autonut · « **on:** October 01, 2006, 03:08:28 PM »

Lokking 2 buy a 78 TA. Found one with vin 2W877N116745. Is this right and what is the decode? Thanks

kyledyr · « **Reply #1 on:** October 01, 2006, 03:12:08 PM »

http://www.78ta.com/vin.htm

ta78w72 · « **Reply #2 on:** October 02, 2006, 09:39:16 AM »

Check the VIN again. I don't think you've got it right.

autonut · « **Reply #3 on:** October 02, 2006, 12:39:33 PM »

OK. The seller changed the vin no. to 2W8778N, which makes more sence if he misread the 5th digit as a 7 insted of as a Z.

ta78w72 · « **Reply #4 on:** October 02, 2006, 08:12:26 PM »

The "Z" engine is the Pontiac 400. Do you have pictures? And is the engine original to the vehicle?

Check around the rear window below the moulding for rust. Also the bottom of the doors and around the fenders.

Pull the rear seats if you can to check the floor pan. Then pull the carpet off the trunk to check for rust.

If you've got a rust free car with the orignal engine and a nice straight never been hit body....go for it. If you've got rust or the body had been heavily repaired or a different engine has been installed.....look for something else.

You'll be spending enough on a nicely preserved car (and I speaking about after you buy the car for repairs and maintenance)....you don't want to invest in a broken down rust bucket.

autonut · « **Reply #5 on:** October 02, 2006, 11:12:15 PM »

Thanks for the advice. I'm still trying to get a clear picture of the vin no. The car is in another state(and a long way, aways) so I may have to hire an inspection service. I have never done this, so I don't know if a service can be had that is reliable. If I can find one, I will require them to inspect as you have suggested. Thanks again.

ta78w72 · « **Reply #6 on:** October 03, 2006, 09:56:17 AM »

The VIN isn't go to tell you more than the model, where it was made, the engine, the year, and the number of the car. You should also get the body numbers. That will give you some additional information.

I bought mine based on many pictures and lots of discussions with the owner. Then I flew 2,000 miles inspected it and drove it home. It's insane, I know, but I got very lucky and got a great, great car.

fb_rider · « **Reply #7 on:** October 05, 2006, 11:56:32 PM »

Where's the car at? I'd be willing to be that someone would be willing to go check it out for you.

autonut · « **Reply #8 on:** October 08, 2006, 07:24:49 PM »

A little late for inspection. The car is on EBAY. No 220033072339. Do you have an opinion as to what this car is worth?

ta78w72 · « **Reply #9 on:** October 09, 2006, 09:54:54 PM »

It sold for $20K. Kind of a lot in my opinion. It needs work.