True a bonded title is for when there is no title in hand and you complete that process to register it in your name. However if you cannot get the original title signed by the power of attorney for the person that is deceased, you run the risk of loosing your bond and the vehicle being taken away from you by that person.
Do a VIN check on it, you can also send it to me and I can see if my database comes up with anything. Keep in mind that it would likely be the serial number as there is probably no true VIN.
The final answer would be to pass and walk away if you cannot get a title since it has one. Even if you use it as parts you can still maybe be sued for buying something that you know should not have been legally sold. So I would pass.
PM me with more info, I know of a few M35A2 in your area that are for sale.
Bonded titles are not complex, but it is an all day process and you being in Ennis will be a PITA as you have to drive all the way to the TXDOT office in Waco as noted being in Ellis County after getting you paperwork from the tax office and surety bond (Note, per TxDOT page Ellis tax offices are serviced by Waco location). I think you start out at the tax office, from there you get a surety bond and either back to the tax office or to the Texas TxDot office. I do not recall if they print out a bonded title for you at that time, or if it is mailed. Make sure all your personal information is correct on your checks, licenses and insurance and they ALL match exactly. I had the surety bond put my middle name on it and was a PITA to correct. So make 100% sure everything is exactly identical in the paperwork. For me I had the Tax office and TxDOT locations with 10 miles of each other and multiple locations between the two that can supply a surety bond.
