[FallbrookAMO]

Excellent discussion. Unfortunately, I am entering this subdued fray a little late, however I am entering with all good intent. I am now 47 years old. From the time I was licensed to drive, I was a tried and true Chevy enthusiast. I owned these cars in the 70s when cloning was absolutely unheard of. 69' Chevelle 396/375s, 70' 1/2 350/360 Z/28s, 69' DZ 302s, Novas', Impalas, Vettes, etc, etc. You name them, I owned them.

At this point, I would not touch a "collectable" Chevy with a ten foot pole. Even with my level of experience and expertise. Vehicle fraud runs absolutely rampant amongst this mark, and as one individual previously stated, factory documentation in terms of trim/vin tags was minimal at best.

For the past 10 years or so, I have been an avid collector of AMCs. Do a Google search under "Ed Buscis". AMCs are.....peculiar, to say the least. However, engine/trans combinations are clearly designated in the vin. Trim codes, (interior and paint) are clearly stated on the trim tag. The dollar amount commanded for these vehicles was never significant (until as of late). For many years, these aforementioned factors helped to provide a "safer haven" for the AMC collector.

Now??? The same disgusting scumbags have infiltrated this marketplace also. So, as far as I'm concerned, ultimately two major important elements will help to protect yourself.

One. Due diligence.

Two. Caveat emptor.

I praise ANYONE for the noble cause of attempting to create and maintain a high degree of integrity in this marketplace. But with all due respect.....Good Luck. It seems to me that deception has become a greatly crafted, and finely honed skill for many of these dishonest individuals.

And ultimately? It is we, as the buyers and sellers of these vehicles, that will take the ultimate responsibilty for our actions. Crying over spilled milk, and then retaining the services of a skilled attorney to attempt to correct our mistakes, draws a close parallel to bringing a box of Band-Aids to a Russian Roulette party. Maybe you shouldn't of went in the first place.

Just my 2 cents.

Most Respectfully,
Ed Buscis