Thread: Hey Everyone! New to this, advice needed

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Hello everyone from the great state of New Jersey! (Yes, it was very hard to say that with a straight face!)

I'm looking to build a car, using bits and pieces from all different cars. I know this sounds far fetched, but I want either a V8 or a powerful V6, auto transmission, and...all/4 wheel drive. Also, I would like an ABS system if possible. I know this seems out there, and I know it may not qualify as a hot rod, but its what my ideal car would be. I'm working on the style right now, no idea what I will use. Google Sketchup is very useful.

I need info as to how new jersey works as far as custom cars like this. Whats needed as far as registration, insurance, etc?

All initial titles for special vehicles are issued by MVC Central Office in Trenton. Call (888) 486-3339 on Tuesday and ask for the Hot Rod/Kit Car/reconstructed information packet. When you get it in the mail, read it over a couple of times and follow it to the letter. Keep all of your receipts, keep copies of any and all vehicle titles you are using or have used for parts. The key to passing NJ's specialty inspection (before your home built hot rod can be titled) is to keep an eye on the details and document everything. Been through it both at the Asbury Park and Morristown specialty inspection stations well over two dozen times since 1999 both with my own vehicles and after trailering down other peoples vehicles for their initial inspection(s). As for your specs, there is a doctor who lives in Denville, NJ currently driving around in a 1929 Model "A" that sits on slightly modified S10 4X4 chassis (this is what he calls his winter beater) with a much modified V6 under the hood......If he can do it so can you........

Bill S.

Thanks for the info. Another quick question. At what stage in construction would I need to start insuring the thing? Which title would I use to insure it: The chassis' title, the frame's, or the drivetrain's?

Originally Posted by Starbase89

Thanks for the info. Another quick question. At what stage in construction would I need to start insuring the thing? Which title would I use to insure it: The chassis' title, the frame's, or the drivetrain's?

Title wise you may end up with a NJ supplied and mandated VIN, insuring it, I usually do not bother with insurance until it's at least a running go cart. The way my homeowners policy is written everything is covered under my garage rider as parts. Once titled (which you cannot get without that safety inspection as NJ knows all the tricks these days, ALL OF THEM), you can then put it on your policy.


Bill S.

V8, all wheel drive, ABS---buy a wrecked Chevy Trailblazer SS---powerful engine, awd, abs, very nice seats, brakes beyond belief