[Benson]

Something I learned in the last 60 years dealing with these cars ...

When you visit the DMV, the less that you say, the better off you will be!

Do not volunteer anything.

If you get a newbie inspector and you mention that you think that the body has to be raised to look at the serial number , then that is likely exactly what the inspector will make you do.

(inspector not wanting to look like Ronnie Rookie !).