Mark3 Roadster Kit purchase

[fhp1154!]

I have located a Mk3 kit, never started, the body is mounted to the frame only for storage. Is there any thing I should look for with a kit that has been sitting for almost 16 years? thanks in advance

[AC Bill]

Well it depends how it was stored..Inside or outside? If inside chances are you won't have as much to worry about, as to frame rust, gel-coat crazing, body warping, etc.

Do you have an parts inventory packing list, so you can check to make sure all the parts are there? If not, I bet someone has one floating around they could copy and send to you.
There are a few specialty parts made for the roadster, that your not going to find at any parts store. Tranny support frame for instance. Also things like hinges, hood & trunk latches, door latches, tail lights and turn signals, etc. And if missing, they can add quite a bit more to the build cost. Is windshield still un-broken?

[Jeff Kleiner]

As an FYI, if it's 16 years old it isn't a Mk3 (or even a Mk2).

Jeff

[fhp1154!]

The kit was purchased in 2001, he says mk3, the kit had upgrades even though its a base kit, rear coil overs, a arm kit and the biggie, powder coated frame. It was stored in barn, and has most of donor parts less engine.

[scottiec]

I think we may be been looking at the same kit. DC Metro area?

[Gromit]

You want to get the MCO. Or it will be very hard if not impossible to get a title and in turn registration

A Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO), also known as a Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO), is a specified document https://secure.rmv.state.ma.us/PolicyBrowserPublic/PB/WordDocuments/gloss_certificateoforigin.htm

You need that signed over from the original kit purchaser

Chris AKA Gromit

[Jeff Kleiner]

The kit was purchased in 2001, he says mk3,...

Definitely not a Mk3. The Mk2 was introduced in 2002 so what you found is actually what is now considered a Mk1, although it may have some Mk2 updates that were phased into production at the end of the run before the full blown Mk2 was released (these are sometimes called Mk1.5 or "tweener" cars---as in "between" Mk1 and Mk2). Lots of updates with each new series but if you can buy this very early car at the right price...

Jeff

[edwardb]

You want to get the MCO. Or it will be very hard if not impossible to get a title and in turn registration

A Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO), also known as a Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO), is a specified document https://secure.rmv.state.ma.us/PolicyBrowserPublic/PB/WordDocuments/gloss_certificateoforigin.htm

You need that signed over from the original kit purchaser

Chris AKA Gromit

Unless the seller is a dealer, the MCO can't be signed. The signature blocks are for dealers only. I'ts not like a regular title where the consumer can sign as the seller. Most states will accept a valid MCO with the original purchaser's name and an executed bill of sale showing the transfer of ownership. However, some won't or make it very difficult. Michigan where I live is one. I've purchased two where I wasn't the original buyer, and the last one almost didn't get titled. As long as I'm in Michigan, won't be doing that again. Something to carefully check before purchasing.