Hi Guys,
I need some help from the K Model experts. I'm dealing with a CA DMV title issue for the 1953 K Model I inherited from my brother. He last registered it in CA in 1984, then became ill and let the registration lapse. I have his 1982 issued CA "pink slip". When I tried to transfer ownership to me, CA DMV said there is another 1953 Harley in their electronic system with same VIN number. My pink slip has both VIN and engine number entered, with the engine number as VIN. DMV did an investigation, and said they could find no evidence of fraud in their records, so it has become a "civil matter". I do not know who the other registered owner is, only that it is currently in Non-Op status. I had my motorcycle inspected by a CHP Motorcycle Officer, who issued a VIN Verification Report that check the boxes for both VIN and Engine Numbers as "appear okay". My engine number looks correct and unaltered, and the belly number is appropriate for a 1953 K Model (553-1219).
My questions for the experts here, other than fraudulently re-stamped engine numbers, is it possible that there could be two K model engine cases with the same Harley factory or dealer stamped engine number? If so, does Harley have records that could help my case?
Any information or advice you have for me would be greatly appreciated.
Dennis