Engine number, IVA

[sidpotters]

Our doner MX5 was originally register in 1997, then registered in the UK in 2004. The V5C shows engine number as not known.
We have submitted paperwork ready for IVA but they have come back asking us to confirm/prove engine to be original.
Whilst we believe it is, not sure how we can prove this. Any feedback appreciated.

[ancsportscars]

Did you retain the original VIN plate from the donor? Does it have the engine number on that?

The engine number on the block is notoriously difficult to read as they are only faintly etched/stamped in which may be why its listed as unknown on v5?. Careful cleaning with fine emery paper may reveal it. Will prob still need to take a photo of it with  phone to read it.  Hopefully you can then match it to the vin and v5.

[tojeiro]

I honestly thought I would never be able to read the number on my block but lots of soaking with wd40 and wet and dry paper helped to make it legible again. No chance of seeing perfectly during IVA so I showed the photo as extra proof.

by -Tojeiro 74-

If you need to check age of engine then there is a chart with engine number range against years.

Vin ID Chart by -Tojeiro 74-

[sidpotters]

Thanks for the feedback, particularly the chart. The chart shows our engine was manufactured between Dec 94 and Aug 95.
The car was originally registered, according to V5C in 97 then Uk registered in 2004. Vin number on V5C is reordered but engine
Is shown as 'not known'.
We believe the engine to be the original and have submitted old MOSt and a statement from a previous owner advising the same. The IVA test centre have advised below:

Good morning,

Thank you for your emails, attached.

They have been referred to our Technical Section. Unfortunately, none of the information provided to date confirms that the specific engine number quoted came from the donor vehicle. This is a requirement for all Class C applications.

We would advise that you contact the vehicle manufacturer, and request confirmation of the specific engine that was installed into this vehicle at point of manufacture. The letter would have to be issued by the Homologation Department, and include both the VIN and engine number as per your application.

After speaking to the DVLA I have returned my V5C, advising them of the situation, and the engine number, hoping they will update the V5C accordingly. However, having read a few different forum chats, I am not sure the test centre will accept that.

I have written to Mazda Uk, explaining the situation and I am awaiting their reply. If they come back with the information that should suffice but, again, having read some forums, they are appear reluctant to help. Will have to wait and see.

Any one else had this problem or got any ideas how to address it?

[Stiggy]

I notice from the text above you appear to have applied for IVA under class C which is for traders.
You need to apply under class A which is for amateur builders.
Proof of engine ID/age not required unless you are claiming it was pre 95 to avoid needing a cat.
An example of how to fill in the IVA form is here;

www.mevltd.co.uk/forum/discussion/59/filling-in-the-iva-application-form-iva-1c

[R2S]

I had a real problem reading the engine number on my 98 1800, I too had to clean with fine sand paper and then use purple sharpie to shade all area before sanding again, number eventually became visible but was still pretty difficult to make out .