INSPECTION
AND
REGISTRATION
(This
section is taken from our manuals.
Also: Here is a link to the SEMA database.
ERA supplies a Certificate
of Origin (also
known as an MSO) with the kit. A title will be
issued by the
state in which you register the finished car, usually only after an
inpection. Without researching and writing an entire
book on the subject, it is impossible
to give up-to-date information on the process of inspection and
registration
in every state. You must call your state Department of Motor Vehicles
or
its equivalent to get local procedures and restrictions. Most states
have
a pamphlet outlining the requirements for composite cars.
About 20
state DMVs have their own
web
site where you might find information,
too.
Cobra
Trader also has some links and additional
information. You
can also consult with current owners of our cars in your state.
Many states will want to install a new State
Identification Plate (in addition to the E.R.A.
ID plate).
Most states fall into 4 inspection categories:
- Inspections are done only by central or
regional motor vehicle
inspection
stations.
- Inspections may be done by a local state
inspection station. That is, a branch
of the state Motor Vehicle Department.
- Inspections may be done by authorized (private)
inspection stations.
- No direct inspection is necessary.
POSSIBLE
PROBLEM AREAS
 Exhaust
system: Some states require a
heat shield over
the 427SC side pipes,
and the side pipes may be too noisy. Call us.
Some states will put a local identification plate on your car.
On the 427SC
and FIAs, have them put it on the firewall above the drivers footbox if
possible.
On the ERA GT, the preferred position is inside the engine
compartment,
on the roll bar structure.
GT only:
Some states don't like plastic
headlight covers. Leave them off. If they also
require safety
glass for side windows, so they may also have to be left off..
We can
get documentation that the coated Lexan windows are compliant, though.
Headlight height may also be a problem.
Fortunately, the car
can be raised a couple of inches (adjustable spring heights, remember?)
to
comply. Many times, it is easier to use one of the title
services listed
above rather than try and comply with current standards.
BE
PREPARED!
- Check all your systems for proper
function.
- Don't go to an inspection station ignorant of the
local requirements.
- Don't expect special favors from motor vehicle
inspectors, and treat them
with respect. They are just doing their job. If you have a problem, ask
the
inspector how it might be fixed. They can be very helpful. If you have
to
return for a follow-up, try to get the same inspector.
- Do have everything working, properly adjusted,
neat and clean. The better
your car looks, the easier it is to pass inspection.
- Most states require thorough
documentation of the origin of your parts. Be
sure that you have
bills of sale for your engine, transmission, wheels etc. You will get a
Certificate of Origin for the kit from E.R.A. at the time of delivery.
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