Real GM Panels

[Peter M.]

I have a gray fiberglass panel (front right fender vent panel) for a 66 which is claimed an original GM panel. I have not noted any mfg marks. Any hints on charachteristicts to determine if this is the real McCoy ?

[Wayne W.]

Re: Real GM Panels

If it is slick marble gray and has the tabs for the 63-64 grille attachment, then it is most likely a GM part, but unfortunately these are not original constrution nor correct. Good repros are much better. These were parts that were sold over the counter by GM, but over the years the compositions changed, and in an attempt to cover more applications they were made to fit all. Just because it is a GM part, doesnt make it correct or better than the reproduction.

[Mike M.]

Re: Real GM Panels

Wayne: i think he was referring to the side panel, not the parking lite panel.mike

[Wayne W.]

Re: Real GM Panels

Yes, I see, but the same basic answer applies to any of them. GM sold some 65-66 sides that were a light gray and a little slicker than the originals. I think that they were made of the Gennite material or a form of SMC. Whatever it was, it was different from original. They also suppled many 66 panels in the black glass like 67. These are real polyester fiberglass and are good except that the color is too dark for all but the late 66s. It has been many years since original color glass has been available for 65-66. The last ones that I know of, that were near the correct color were made by Rockwell, when they still were doing them. These were usually a little on the green side, but were close to the early to mid 66 color.