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Bought a Used Takeuchi Without VIN Plate Anyone Seen This Before

H

HellFire

Member
Hello,

Just picked up a used Takeuchi compact track loader at an auction. Machine runs good, tracks and hydraulics feel fine, but I noticed something strange while checking it over.

The serial data plate is completely missing. I was trying to verify the machine info and realized there’s no Takeuchi vin plate anywhere obvious on the frame.

Previous owner history is unknown so now I’m wondering:

Has anyone dealt with this before? Is it normal for older machines or should I be worried?

I mainly want to make sure parts ordering and future resale won’t turn into a nightmare.
 
Happens more than you think. Plates get damaged or painted over during repairs. First thing I’d check is whether you can still find a stamped number on the frame somewhere.
 
There are a few reasons this happens and not all of them are bad.

On Takeuchi machines the plate is usually riveted on and sits where dirt, mud and even battery acid can hit it over time. I’ve seen them corrode until the numbers are unreadable.

That being said, you should still verify the serial number because:

*parts diagrams are often serial specific

*production changes happen mid-series

*resale buyers usually ask for proof

Most of the time there is still a stamped number on the main frame or near the track area. It may be faint under paint.

If you can locate that, you’re probably fine.
 
I bought one like that years ago. Turned out the plate got ripped off when they pressure washed and repainted it. Machine was legit, just missing the tag.
 
If you’re trying to replace the Takeuchi vin plate, just know dealers usually won’t issue a new one unless you prove ownership and confirm the serial from another source. They’re pretty strict about that for obvious reasons.

What I normally do when one comes into the shop:

Find frame stamp​

Compare with ECU or service records if available​

Take photos before cleaning or repainting​

Once you have the number, parts ordering becomes easy again.
 
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