I talked to a guy at work today about a '35 Sedan he's been driving occasionally. He bought it at auction here in KC with an Iowa title. When he went to register it the DMV told him that the VIN plate was obviously not an original, and that they would not approve the transfer to Kansas. After a bit of conversation they told him his alternative was to get a court order. He researched a bit and completed the process without hiring a lawyer, going to state court to petition for the title from Iowa to be recognized. Worked out OK, and cost him between $200 and $300.

Problem for my situation is that I would be trying to convince the Judge that the guy I bought the untitled roller from was honest, that nothing on the vehicle is less than legitimate, and petitioning for a VIN - not quite the same.