1975 lower firewall (toeboard) heat shield finish

[Patrick H.]

Does anyone happen to know the correct finish for the rectangular metal heat shields attached to the lower engine side of the firewall in the toe area as installed on a 1975 Corvette?

Previous years they were done in black or gray phosphate. The set I have here appears that it may be punched galvanized metal, and not phosphated. I'd like to see if anyone else knows before I think about refinishing these.

Thanks!

[Patrick H.]

[Eric P.]

Re: 1975 lower firewall (toeboard) heat shield finish

Hi Patrick,
I had some time today to crawl under the '75. It is tough getting pictures from under the car with it sitting on the ground. Here is one picture for what it is worth. I would concur that the shield seems to be formed-stamped metal with no finish. If you need better pictures or more help don't hesitate to call or email me.

Hope this helps?

Eric Patty

[Patrick H.]

Re: 1975 lower firewall (toeboard) heat shield finish

Thanks Eric.

No discussion of this shield at all in the 75-77 JG revision notes, and no photos.
I don’t want to change the finish if it’s supposed to be a punched-out galvanized part. I can try to de-rust this one and use some satin clear if I have to.

Apparently no one else has 75 Corvettes.

[Guy F.]

Re: 1975 lower firewall (toeboard) heat shield finish

Hello Patrick,

Sorry for the delay in responding. I was out of town last weekend and came home to some work issues. I had time last evening to raise my car up and crawl underneath for some pictures.

Your shields appear to have the same finish as mine--unfinished. Eric's shields seem to have more surface rust than mine or yours. I did clean some oil/grease off of my driver's side shield. For the pasenger side shield pic, I swung the heater hose out of the way.

I hope this helps. Please ask if you need more info.

[Patrick H.]

Re: 1975 lower firewall (toeboard) heat shield finish

Hi Guy,

That finish appears very similar to what I have on the ones here, though yours are in better condition.
I will have to check with the owner then what he wants to do for finish. I might just de-rust them and apply some satin clear.

Patrick