i started with the 87 samurai since it had a title and could be registered sight unseen. but then called motor vehicles department and asked if i could register a '53 jeep i got that was a basket case with no VIN number and only a bill of sale. the girl did some research and said if they couldn't find a VIN then they would asign a new number to it. my biggest fear was that it would call a "special construction" and have to meet 2010 FMVSS. once i have the chassis finished i will paint the frame to make it look a little more restored and not like i've pieced it together. once it's a roller i'll take it down and cross my fingers. after registration is final insurance will not be a problem.