Air Cleaner Decal Reproduction

[Roger S.]

Looking for best reproduction air cleaner decal for my '70 LT-1. Ordered one from Paragon and although it has the correct "Printed in USA" type, the clarity of the "R" and the "B" in "TURBO-FIRE" is suspect. The letters look almost completely filled in. Any help locating a better reproduction would be appreciated.

[Joe L.]

Re: Air Cleaner Decal Reproduction

Roger-----

I believe that most, if not all, of the engine decals on the market today come from the same source. However, it's possible that there are multiple sources by now. I would recommend that you contact the traditional source, and possibly the source of Paragon's reproductions, and state your concerns. That source is M.F. Dobbins of Hatboro, PA who can be contacted at 215-443-0779.

The main problem with these decals as far as I'm concerned is the quality of the adhesive used on them. The originals had an adhesive that that would hold strong "come hell or high water". The reproductions seem to lift after a relatively short time of exposure to engine compartment heat.

My solution? Seek out and purchase NOS original labels. Some time ago I purchased multiple sets of these labels for several different engines of the 68-72 period [none for sale]. So, I've got enough now to last me for a lifetime regardless of which engine in this period that I might want them for. If I could find all of these, then you should be able to find at least ONE original label for your car. That will solve all of your concerns.

[Roger S.]

Re: Air Cleaner Decal Reproduction

Thanks for the info Joe. In the meantime, if you happen to have a 350/370, you know where it can find a home! Thx again.

[Harmon C.]

Re: Air Cleaner Decal Reproduction

Roger I have looked at lots of labels on the market and if compared to know original labels they were all made at best 75% correct. They never thought the NCRS people needed it 100% correct so most people don't care and they will make them wrong as long as they sell. Lyle

[Patrick H.]

Re: Air Cleaner Decal Reproduction

The other problem is the number that they needed to produce and sell.

Let's say you needed to make 5000 of a label for your guy to print them for you (i.e. minimum order). Do you know how long it takes to sell 5000 labels? Over time you learn how you need to "fix" your label. But you've got 3000 left. Since few people want to pay $8 or $10 for a label (to recover the cost of the first batch you'll now toss as well as the second) you keep selling design #1 for quite a while.

Patrick