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I have a very early 1968 with cracks on the tops of both front fenders. The cracks span the width of the top of the fender and cause the entire front end to sag. I have an old magazine article that says that in late 1968, GM added reinforcements to the front of the inner fenders. The part numbers for these reinforcements were 3954523 LH; 3954524 RH. There were also apparently two plates that were used in conjunction with the reinforcements (part no. 3954519) and two bolts (part no. 3846201). Are these parts still available from GM? Repro? Any thoughts on how to make the repair? This car sat for at least 20 years with the cracks. As a result, the sagging looks like its "set." I am concerned that it will crack again when the car hits a big bump in the road. Thaks in advance.
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Re: 68 sagging front nose
My original owner Feb built 68 does not have the later added braces and the front end does not sag like what you are experiencing. I suspect there is something else wrong here. -
Re: 68 sagging front nose
Bernard-----
The parts which you seek are all GM-discontinued. I don't know if they are reproduced, or not. However, I do not show these reinforcements as being applicable to a 68. It's possible that they were used in very late production, but my information shows them as being first used for the 1969 model year.
I strongly doubt that the installation of these reinforcements, if even they can be installed on a 68, will be a cure for the problem which you describe.In Appreciation of John HinckleyComment
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Re: 68 sagging front nose
Bernard; You need to look closely at the bumper support which bolts to the front of the frame and goes out to the center of the bumper. It may be loose or rusted. This part is key to alignment of fiber glass. Also look for a front end repair that may have been improperly done from the center of the wheels forward, this may be what is causeing the cracks on the top. DavidavidComment
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Re: 68 sagging front nose
FYI, I had this problem with my 68 coupe for years. Cracking occured in spite of my having everything in the right place. I finally installed the two braces, (the holes in the header are already there on a 68, you just have to drill holes in the inner fender) and have not had further cracking in the ensuing 12 years. LarryComment
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Re: 68 sagging front nose
Larry:
Do you know if the braces are available in reproduction?
ThanksComment
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Re: 68 sagging front nose
I bought mine from G.M. I think they are still available here and there. I would try Last Detail first. I don't know if they are reproduced. I expect they are very common in wrecking yards. I'll bet Contemporary Corvette has plenty. LarryComment
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