On homemade, Register Incomplet Vehicle to Completed Vehicle

[al1florida]

If I buy a new chassis cab (Incomplete Vehicle) from Ford/Chevy and build a RV on the vehicle, how do I get the finished RV registered as a Completed Vehicle? Has anyone done this?

Thanks,

Al

[carringb]

Not easy. You have to register as a final-state vehicle manufacturer with the Federal Government, and retain documentation of compliance with all applicable FMVSS, DOT, and EPA regulations. I would suggest finding a local up-fitter who is willing to work with you to ensure compliance, and provide you with a sticker. Try truck body up-fitters, van conversions shops, and 4x4 converters, and mobility converters. There are a lot of big truck upfitters around, so finding one to work with should be too bad. If you do your camper work, then let them install your under-ride protection, and and lights, then they may be willing to sign off on your vehicle. A good Ford dealer with a larger Fleet department should be able to provide you with some connections.

A better option may be a used Ambulance or motorhome chassis. Ambulance makers re-chassis Ambulances after 200,000 miles typically, and Cruise America does the same after about 100,000 miles. In both cases, you are receiving a bare chassis, but they will have already been completed at some point, so the DMV probably won't know any different.

[al1florida]

Carringb,

Thanks for the info. I'll check out your suggestions before starting on a purchase & build.