NJ builders - engine donor question

Hey guys,

I'm building my 289 roadster using a 289 block from a '68 Mustang. If you've been down this path then you know that you must be the titled owner of the car from which the engine came in order for the engine to be used, i.e. successfully title the roadster. Apparently NJ (and a number of other states) do this to ensure that the engine isn't stolen, which I believe was an issue years ago.

So, my original plan was to keep the Mustang body until the roadster was titled, but now I'm wondering if that's even necessary. As long as the Mustang is in my name, and I have photos of the car and stuff like that, I should be able to let the car go. I realize that I can't junk the Mustang body (as the scrapyard will want the title) but if I give the car away without title as a parts donor I'm thinking that would work. It seems most "inexpensive" 60s Fords are sold for parts sans title, so this seems like a reasonable approach. And I'd prefer to not have to keep the Mustang shell in my driveway until the roadster is done ;)

Any thoughts? If you've been down this path, what did you do?

Thanks!

Rob

Not sure if same but in NY they also want to ensure engine is not stolen but there is another way. I purchased a 302 out of an old T-bird at a salvage yard. Salvage yard owned complete car and I just purchased the guaranteed to run engine. Receipt showed car VIN.

It makes no difference what people here tell you, only what the state tells you. Go ask them what to do

Wondering if 1968 Mustang is restorable, the 289 might be more valuable there and roadster gets a crate engine. Worth considering.