[Walt Fricke]

Marc Bixen
Do you, by chance, have the Federal Statute cite, or the implementing Federal Regulation promulgated under the authority given by a statute, for it being a Federal crime for a mere owner to mess with the smog stuff etc. My take (without reading an actual statute/reg) is that this can easily apply to a commercial entity, which would include any shop, or perhaps even individual being paid, doing this.

I'm not saying this is like those tags on bedding or whatnot, which say do not cut off under penalty of law or whatnot. Those are, indeed, applicable only to manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers. I don't know. But as a practical matter no individual is going to be busted for that.

Fraud in licensing, that is another matter altogether. False statements in some circumstances can be big trouble. Ask Martha Stewart. And I don't know quite how the Montana LLC owing the vehicle (friends did that with their big RV) jibes with how California (or other states) deal with residents having to register in CA, or how long term non-residents can temporarily visit CA (I have a brother there - can I stay a couple of months and be OK with my otherwise fully legit car licensed, as I am, in my home state?).

Track only is your best bet. Get a pickup to drive get to work and groceries, and haul the open trailer you have to buy as well.