yep a pre-emptive strike is always better rather than having to go back and redo stuff 
and the vin plate only gives frame number and engine size so the engine number ‘issue’ isnt an issue
bought mine from here…
Thanks Neil. Really useful link.
Where do you get it stamped ? I was hoping to find someone local but not sure where to look.
If you have the VIN stamped on the frame that would surely suffice? That is all mine has as the VIN plate came of at the shop blasters about 30 years ago. Also if the bike is a combination of different parts, frame, engine, etc, then from your post above it does not need one.
Most metal workers, garages, engineering works, etc will have sets of number punches if you want to get a plate stamped up. I am just going to stick to the numbers on my frame that are still visible after a recent shot blast and powder coat. Have fun.
friend of mine had a set of stamps, but i think the bloke who supplies them will stamp or etch them for you…
must admit the one on mine has been painted over for years, i only replaced it as the bike was comming to bits for the frame to be powder coated.
Thanks for all the info. The bike is having a total rebuild, so I am putting a VIN on as a very small part of the work. Your experience much appreciated.
A few general photos of the bike being stripped for anyone interested: http://s1084.photobucket.com/user/ecossenergy/slideshow/
Presuming I have set Photobucket up correctly.
It looks a lot similar condition as mine was before started the rebuild number 2. Rebuild number 1 was over 25 years ago following an accident. If you need anything just ask, there are loads of spare parts and knowledge out there.
Best wishes