Hitman's Pontiac Trans Am Forum

Trans Am Information => Trans Am Information => Topic started by: autonut on October 01, 2006, 03:08:28 PM

Title: VIN Number Decode
Post by: 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

Title: VIN Number Decode
Post by: kyledyr on October 01, 2006, 03:12:08 PM

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

Title: VIN Number Decode
Post by: ta78w72 on October 02, 2006, 09:39:16 AM

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

Title: VIN Number Decode
Post by: autonut 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.

Title: VIN Number Decode
Post by: ta78w72 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.

Title: VIN Number Decode
Post by: autonut 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.

Title: VIN Number Decode
Post by: ta78w72 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.

Title: VIN Number Decode
Post by: fb_rider 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.

Title: VIN Number Decode
Post by: autonut 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?

Title: VIN Number Decode
Post by: ta78w72 on October 09, 2006, 09:54:54 PM

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