C-3 Kick Panels

[D S.]

The 1970-1972 Judging Guide is a bit non-specific about early C-3 kick panels and I have seen a lot of reproductions. I even have a pair of those. At first I thought some butcher cut a perfectly good right panel to make it an AC kick panel until I read the JG about that. I noticed that there is an exterior texture difference between reproductions and originals. I also noticed that the 'R' and 'L' on the backsides are large and uneven on originals and there's nothing like that on the aftermarket ones. In the mesh grid I have seen some that have six unperforated holes (2-2-2) and others with the heavier texture have ten (3-4-3). There are two sets of numbers on on the backside of one panel I have but not so on the reproductions. What other characteristics does one look for between originals and aftermarket ones?

Thanks,
Scott

[Terry F.]

Re: C-3 Kick Panels

I believe 68 was the only year to not have the cut out unless the car had airconditioning. Then, they just cut out the section to fit the air components.
I believe 69 and up had the cut out regardless.

It has been a while since I looked into this.

I would look for a nice set of originals. They are sort of made out of fiberglass and resin. If you want to stip them you might try paint stripper that is safe for fiberglass and water soluable. I have never tried it so maybe test it on the back side. I wanted to experiment with this idea but never got around to it.

If you find a nice set of originals in proper color you are pretty set. They can be repaired with regular fiberglass and mat (if someone drilled holes in them to mount speakers, etc). I would grind an old one up to make a powdery paste and use it to fill holes.

If they have a crack, just use super glue to fuse them back together. It works real well. I go to the hobbie stores and buy the super thin kind. Like I said, it works great on cracks. Work from the back side and try not to let any get through to the painted side.

Later, Terry

[Chas Henderson #28127]

Re: C-3 Kick Panels

Scott.

The repos have a very noticable rectangular slot in them that the real ones dont have.

Chasman