If someone removed ID plates be warned ofthe possibility of a stolen car. Some VIN plates are easily remade (door tags aren't). A lot of older Ford engine blocks have the full production code in one of two places to positively ID it. One is above where the starter mounts facing the ground, and the other is behind the intake on a flat surface (a stamping I believe). I'm not as familiar with the big block engines, though. If it's a stock engine and the door tag's missing I'd have worry in the back of my mind enough to at least run a couple checks on it. Maybe ask if they have the door tag.

 

as the owner of a 1966 mustang that was bought with an "exchanged" door tag...it took me two years to get my title free and clear. The car's VIN was in place but at my younger age,I had no idea to look for it. I matched the title and door tag together and determined the car was legitimate. Turns out my car was stolen in 1973 and I bought it in 1983...as the fourth owner.

 

All too true. Older Fords had no frame tag. On some models the door ID tag will be either to the FRONT OR REAR of the drivers door. Also the under-hood ID tag can be located on the driver or passenger side of the cowl area oralong the upper bolt flange of the front fender. As you already likely know the door tag is the most crucial in easily determining the cars factory appointings (such as axle, transmission, etc.).