Michigan registration requirements

[peterh226]

I’ve been reviewing the Michigan inspection sheet TR-54.
Bumpers are required?
Windshield wipers?
Who has been through this in Michigan?

[edwardb]

I’ve been reviewing the Michigan inspection sheet TR-54.
Bumpers are required?
Windshield wipers?
Who has been through this in Michigan?

I've gone through it three times and hopefully not too much longer will go for number four. Yes, a law enforcement officer is supposed to check your build against that list. How thorough will it be? Depends on the officer. I've run the gamut from checking each item in detail to basically not even looking at the car. The officer looked over his shoulder at the car while standing at my workbench checking paperwork. Said, "Looks nice. Did you do it yourself?" I said yes. Officer says "Everything works?" I said yes, which was the truth. He completed the form without any further questions. If actually inspected, bumpers will probably get some leeway. Wipers, likely not. I've never tried to go without. I had to talk my way out of the washers one time. Fortunately he checked the box. Don't even think about taking the form to the SOS office without every box checked and the form signed. What I've found goes a long with the process is print out the instructions from the website, study it carefully, and have everything ready exactly like it describes. Original receipts, the statement of origin from Factory Five, a written statement describing the build, etc. Make copies ahead of time because you won't get any of the paperwork back.

[peterh226]

Wipers I’m ok with as I’ll have a driver with the top. I’m most concerned about bumpers since the 33 doesn’t have anything like the quick jack points that might pass as a bumper. Anyone registered a 33? I have some police buddies that will help, but the bumper checkbox is pretty basic.

Time to read the full documents..

[peterh226]

The Michigan Form TR-54 is pretty specific in there being a checkbox for Windshield Washers and another for Bumpers. Cops I've talked to don't really want to sign it without something there. So, I'm gonna have to invent something to get through this part of the process.

Just one more challenge along the way...

[edwardb]

The Michigan Form TR-54 is pretty specific in there being a checkbox for Windshield Washers and another for Bumpers. Cops I've talked to don't really want to sign it without something there. So, I'm gonna have to invent something to get through this part of the process.

Just one more challenge along the way...

There is a huge variation in how literal the LEO's are with the TR-54. You might want to ask around in your area and find someone else who's done this before. Obviously I'm not suggesting they look the other way for major items (headlights, turn signals, etc.) but for the smaller stuff as long as they see it's a real car (vs a Rzr quad, whatever) and it's done well, my experience is you can find someone to sign it off.

[JimLev]

Think it will pass if you install some nerf bars?
https://www.yogisinc.com/YPJ-8125?msclkid=5612e3f036db1649f77f8350a6be9f7e&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=**LP%20Shop%20-%20%24200-300&utm_term=4587918426659656&utm_content=PJ-8125%20%7C%20Universal%20Nerf%20Bar%20-%20Chrome%20%7C%20%24249

[Glen Davis]

I’m in California not Michigan but does TR-54 state how the bumpers are to be made? Out of what type of material, % of coverage, height or is just manufactures discretion?
If you are the manufacturer can't you make what you want and call it a bumper?

[Raddksn]

Does thisTR-54 address proving ownership of engine,transmission,rear end?
I’m trying to get In touch with my local SOS office, would I be better off taking to a LEO?
I’m on first name basis with my local sheriff, not that he would over look anything but if he or one of his deputy’s will be inspecting my build, he could answer my question!

[edwardb]

Does thisTR-54 address proving ownership of engine,transmission,rear end?
I’m trying to get In touch with my local SOS office, would I be better off taking to a LEO?
I’m on first name basis with my local sheriff, not that he would over look anything but if he or one of his deputy’s will be inspecting my build, he could answer my question!

No, the TR-54 doesn't specifically address ownership of the various parts. You have to present receipts for those for the title application at the SOS office. It's all explained on the SOS website.

https://www.michigan.gov/documents/TR-54_38480_7.pdf

https://www.michigan.gov/documents/BFS-72__09-03__83315_7.pdf

[peterh226]

July 14. Local police signed off on TR-54. No issues.
July 19. Submitted all paperwork for title application at SOS. Clerk was patient and really trying to make sure we had everything. Took about 45 minutes. Also had to pay Michigan sales tax on the kit. Expected but still a pretty good amount.
July 22. Letter and phone call saying it was in process. Verified I had an emergency brake but that was all.
July 30. SOS agent came to the house, took some pictures and then put the VIN sticker on. Told me to schedule the visit to SOS to get the plate for next Friday.
August 6. SOS scheduled. Should get plate.

So, once the TR-54 is done the rest is just paperwork and patience.

[peterh226]

July 14. Local police signed off on TR-54. No issues.
July 19. Submitted all paperwork for title application at SOS. Clerk was patient and really trying to make sure we had everything. Took about 45 minutes. Also had to pay Michigan sales tax on the kit. Expected but still a pretty good amount.
July 22. Letter and phone call saying it was in process. Verified I had an emergency brake but that was all.
July 30. SOS agent came to the house, took some pictures and then put the VIN sticker on. Told me to schedule the visit to SOS to get the plate for next Friday.
August 6. SOS scheduled. Should get plate.

So, once the TR-54 is done the rest is just paperwork and patience.

Got my plate today! 18 days from TR-54 to plate. Everyone was helpful and it was not a problem. Now to adjust my front ride height…