'69 Spare Tire Trays

[Craig C.]

Can anyone give me the part number for the upper spare tire tray on a '69? This item is blocked off on my ASM Manual copy, and I am looking for one. Does anyone know of a good source for an upper tray? Are they reproduced? One of the previous owners did some work on the gas tank and apparently didn't see the need to replace it.

Also, I recall in previous posts discussion regarding the finish condition of the upper and lower spare tire trays for this era car. It was pointed out that the carriers were natural - that is just plain gray fiber-glass finish. I was somewhat surprised to see, however, the amount of aging which has taken place on my lower tray after I removed the V-strap for reconditioning. The color under the V-stap is much darker gray than the remainder. Any suggestions on how the original darker gray color can be reintroduced to the trays when they are suppose to remain unpainted? I'm guessing that it would be much better, from a judging point of view, to tolerate the faded color than to try to paint to the original color.

Two more questions: Does anyone know the significance of the raised molded numbers on the inner surface of the lower tray (just curious)? On mine, I see a '48173' and then to the right a '2 457 901'. Finally, where can I get correct Al rivits to reattach the V-strap? I bought some recently, that I beleive are 5/8" long, that are just not quite right in all their dimensions.

Thanks in advance,

Craig

[Joe L.]

Re: '69 Spare Tire Trays

Craig-----

The spare tire cover for your car was originally GM #3914226. This part was replaced in later C3 PRODUCTION and all C3 SERVICE with GM #14011839. Both covers are virtually the same in configuration when mounted on the car. Both covers are also GM-discontinued. However, finding a good used example should not be very difficult, at all. This part was made of black polyethylene plastic, is very "indestructable", doesn't wear out, and very few folks need one. Combined with the fact that quite a few 68-82 Corvettes have gone to "Corvette Heaven" over the years, there should be more than a few of these kicking around in Corvette salvage yards. Of course, some of these folks will probably tell you that this is a "rare and valuable" Corvette part. Don't believe them, though; it's not. Beware of shipping charges, though, as this part is UPS oversize.

You won't be able to restore the original color to your spare tire tray with any process which won't be detectable; I'd probably leave it as-is.

Correct rivets for this application can be obtained from Dr. Rebuild.

[Michael Hampson]

Re: '69 Spare Tire Trays

Just a note- I was able to spray the fiberglass carrier with a satin clear paint that seemed to match the original sheen, and also succeeded in darkening the gray color enough to closely match the color under the straps. It is totally unnoticeable to me as being painted. -Michael

[Gary F. LeDuc]

Re: '69 Spare Tire Trays

I have to second Mikes comments on the spray. I did the same thing and got great results. I, in fact was cleaning up a repair.