Salvage Title QUestion

[DennyCayman]

Hi All,
I have been hunting for a BB and just ran across one that a dealer has and the title has SALVAGE stamped across it. I was told the it was stolen and not much damage to it broken back window and stero taken. And the insurance counted it as a total loss. So I have proceeded in working out a price now here is the question my insurance agent is concerned that it was bought from a junk yard, I assured her it has not been. She is afraid that an insurance company might not insure it. Has anyone have any knowledge in this area?

Denny

[peteaeonix]

You may have trouble insuring it and you may have trouble registering it. In essence, the vehicle has been "totaled" and those down the line may consider it unsafe. In general, a specialty company that restores salvaged vehicles might be able to get new paperwork (with out the salvage stamp), but there will be costs and considerable hassle involved.

By the way, there is no way that a vehicle with a broken window and stolen stereo was "totaled." Not even an ancient BB. There has got to be more, probably much more, to the story. There is considerable chance that the coach was involved in a hurricane and was submerged underwater for a time. The cosmetic damage of such immersion can be fairly easy to hide, but the effect of (probably salt) water on the wiring, engine, and other components can be extensive and will prove a serious headache in time.

I would stay away from a salvage vehicle. Period.

I know here in GA you can't drive a vehicle with a salvage title to the inspection location. It can't be put on the road until inspected plus as Pete said must be done by professional

[warbucks13477]

I have always understood that a salvage title is not insurable until the things it was salvaged for are renewed and the vehicle is inspected and safe for the road. however I would check with your state since you are going to want to get a regular title once it is in your possession.

[DennyCayman]

Hi Pete and Hugh,

Thanks for you in put, that is what I am thinking, not sure about flooding it is up in Missouri.

Denny

[fxdwg]

Lots of Katrina vehicles have ended up all over the country. It's current location doesn't indicate where it's really from.

[bwinter1946]

There is NO WAY I would believe a broken window and a stereo stolen would total/salvage a Bluebird. That smells BIG TIME!!

Normally to total a vehicle the repair needs to exceed a certain percentage of the value of the vehicle. Like if the vehicle was worth $40,000 the insurance might total it out if the repair was estimated to cost $30,000. Something happened to this rig.

Some insurance companies will not insure a total. A total is worth a lot less than a non-total coach in the same condition. I would be more inclined to think flood, fire, or hurricane.

You may be able to find out more through carfax.com. I think it costs $30 to run one.

However with all the nice coaches out there why buy a total?

My personal policy is I don't buy totals/salvage title vehicles. Period.

[Randy Dupree]

buyer beware!
the resale value of a ''salvage'' tiltled vehicle will not be good.
In Fl you cannot register anything with a salvage title.

Originally Posted by Randy Dupree

buyer beware!
the resale value of a ''salvage'' tiltled vehicle will not be good.
In Fl you cannot register anything with a salvage title.

If I had a place to store it and could get for pennies on the dollar, I would consider one for parts only

[DennyCayman]

Hi all,
Thanks for all your help and info. I am still gathering info and not sure which way I am going but value your imput

Denny