How can I search my car's history?

[bbbentley]

I read with interest the post by Stefano about the scammers. One thread stated that the only way to buy a car is with documentation. I understand the importance, but here is my situation: I bought my car 33 years ago and it is the Real Deal. I recently decided to find out about previous owners. Here in Ohio, they only keep records back 7 years I am told! Further, because of privacy laws, I have to have previous owner's permission to get info. Since I have owned it so long, Ohio says they can not help me. The previous owner(briefly) was my best friend back in the day(and my best man at my wedding -82')I did not have the funds when I found the car and he bought it, put title in his name and basically gave car to me and said pay him when I got the money.I did pay him quickly, and at 18 did not realize the love affair I would have with this car and hold on to this car since 1980. I lived in Cincinnati area then and only thing I can recall is previous owner(guy who had car when I found it) had his cousin? in N.Ky remove engine. All other components including radiator,bellhousing,flywheel,trans,rear end are born with items. Any thoughts?