1968 and 69 hood surrounds

[Greg L.]

This question is in regards to the area of the front hood surround corners.

Page 22 and 23 of the 68-69 TIM&JG make reference of the differences between the 68 and 69 forward hood surround corners. That explanation is clear to me, but when did this change occur? Did any 68s have this improved design to prevent cracking or was it only incorporated at the start of the 69 model run? If any 68s had this newer 69 style hood surround, about when was it incorporated?

Thanks,

Greg Linton
#45455

[Dick W.]

Re: 1968 and 69 hood surrounds

Greg of the know originals we have seen the '69 style surround has not been seen on any '68's or the opposite no '68 surrounds have been seen on '69's.
I would refer to the '68 AIM but the page that deals with the surround is not in the repro manuals.

[Terry F.]

Re: 1968 and 69 hood surrounds

I did see a 68 a long time ago with a 69 looking hood surround. It appeared to be original but I didn't have time to get my microscope out. I do remember it had no stingray scrip on it and the side vents were blacked out as original. now side vent trim either, nor any sign that that stuff was ever there?? I am suspicious that some late 68's may have had them. My May 68 has the 68 style hood surround though. I also believe that they new about the problem at the factory and added a little piece of "L" shaped reinforcement to the corners of each hood surround untill they changed the structure of the hood surround. I have to start looking for that piece more often when looking at cars. Been only looking at mine these days. Terry

[Bryan K. Montford]

Re: 1968 and 69 hood surrounds

Is the extra reinforcement the only diffeence between a 68 and 69 hood surround?

[Terry F.]

Re: 1968 and 69 hood surrounds

I believe so. Terry

[Bryan K. Montford]

Re: 1968 and 69 hood surrounds

Thanks Terry!