hull number

[changer]

We own a 1985 27 FC...how do we find our hull number? and any other history

thanks, doug J

[DesertAlbin736]

Hull number (full HIN ID) on any boat sold new in the US from 1972 & later should have its full hull/serial number including manufacturers' code molded or etched into the upper starboard corner of the transom. It varies by state, but if an older pre-'72 boat (like my 1971) that only has a brass nameplate or is home built usually has to get a new hull number assigned by the state & etched in to register the boat. Finding history of a boat is more difficult, since builders were often loosey-goosey about keeping records.

[WillieC]

The WillieC originally had no hull number etched into the upper starboard transom, or anywhere on the boat, but it had a very definite HIN on the legally transferred title. A couple years later, while we were prepping for our trip into BC last year, we pondered what might transpire if we ran into any zealous officials. Then, as if by magic, we received our license renewal from the great state of Washington with a new HIN that we were directed to etch into the hull. There is now a comment on subsequent renewed registrations stating:

"Non-conforming HIN (XXX...), Owner(s), by signature, attest that the hull identification number is affixed to this vessel."

Fortunately, the WillieC was not made by Boeing.

[DesertAlbin736]

Fortunately, the WillieC was not made by Boeing

Imagine if it was. You'd be heading for a rock or a floating dead head log & when you tried to turn away the steering system software wouldn't let you.

Seriously, in our case Arizona doesn't issue titles for boats, only registrations which are handled by the state Game & Fish Dept. Transfers of ownership are by bill of sale which don't have to be notarized. Private sale of used boats between individuals don't get charged state sales tax but sales by dealers do. Like for example when we registered our new Gig Harbor dinghy we had to show proof that we had purchased it new in Washington (we picked it up from the factory) & paid sales tax on it in Washington. Unlike Washington where any boat owned by out of state residents & kept in their waters full time for more than 60 days per year needs to be registered in Washington & pay stiff sales or use taxes. When first registering a new boat or one coming from out of state & sold to an Arizona resident one has to take it to the Game & Fish office to be physically inspected and if need be like in WillieC's case issued a new HIN. But no notation about previous "non-conforming" hull ID goes on the registration. The registration document is a wallet size card.

[changer]

Sorry for delay, but thank you for your comments.