weird carnet problem...

[Quintin]

Hi all
strange one this. Got the carnet for my merc truck but there's only one problem. The engine number plate has somehow gone missing off the engine block. I know the engine number and I've tried to get Mercedes to issue me with a new plate but they say it's impossible (or to be more accurate "no one's ever asked for it and it's not listed on the parts computer"- Mercedes technical can't/won't help either). So I'm reduced to making up my own plate and riveting it on the block.

My questions are
a) Is this sensible or stupid?
b) Does anyone actually check the engine number on the block with the paperwork-we're going to Senegal?
c) Would you average customs guy know a genuine engine number plate from my made up plate? 'My plate' is a professional looking affair with properly engraved Mercedes Benz AG marking and computer engraved engine number.

All suggestions gratefully received!!

Q

[smarty]

When leaving South Africa, on my last trip, they checked that my engine number matched the papers, after a brief confusion of what was on papers, and what was on computers.
I do think a made up one will get you past borders though without a problem.

[davidmc]

Yep, I would use your made up one. I have created my own paperwork in lieu of having nothing or an expired document. If the engine number is not on there, the customs guys may be looking for one and may give you problems when they can't find anything.

Remember, government bureaucracy is about covering your butt....if they check your homemade plate, they will have done their job...

[hook]

I agree with both of the above remarks. I rode from Capetown to Cairo and no one ever checked the motor #, only the VIN. The VIN is the important one. I'd make a sharp looking motor # and not worry about it. Safe trip!

[Quintin]

Most grateful to you all for your advice. Just noticed that my wonderful plate has got 'Mercedes Beng' which even the most dozy customs guy might notice as dodgy! Back down the engravers then...........

Q

[peter sayer]

[quote=Quintin;149982]Hi all
strange one this. Got the carnet for my merc truck but there's only one problem. The engine number plate has somehow gone missing off the engine block. I know the engine number and I've tried to get Mercedes to issue me with a new plate but they say it's impossible (or to be more accurate "no one's ever asked for it and it's not listed on the parts computer"- Mercedes technical can't/won't help either). So I'm reduced to making up my own plate and riveting it on the block.

My questions are
a) Is this sensible or stupid?
b) Does anyone actually check the engine number on the block with the paperwork-we're going to Senegal?
c) Would you average customs guy know a genuine engine number plate from my made up plate? 'My plate' is a professional looking affair with properly engraved Mercedes Benz AG marking and computer engraved engine number.

All suggestions gratefully received!!

Q
I am writing this while sitting in my customs shed on the Senigal border, if I look out of my window I can see the skeltons of 6 men burried up to their necks in sand each has a fake I.D. plate nailed to there forehead. So, even though, I am only Mr joe average customs guy. Who is just waiting for my pension. I am capable of telling a forged plate when I see one.
I must go now, I have a hole to dig, ready for this Mr Quintin to arrive, with or with out a correct disc in place. I think being burried up to his neck in sand for a week, or 2, will alter his oppiion of the average custom officers inteligence.