1968/69 Side Louvres

[Wes G.]

I would like to know how the 'dull grey' finish is achieved on the internal surface of the optional 'chrome metal' side louvre inserts on the 1968/69's?
It appears as if this finsih is applied after the edges have been chromed?
Has anyone had any experience at restoring these louvres?
Thanks
Wes

[Jim T.]

Re: 1968/69 Side Louvres

The optional side louver trim was not available for the 68 model run, although they could be installed when available. Have a 68 but don't have the louver trim so don't know about the finish.

[Shannon Burgess]

Re: 1968/69 Side Louvres

I'm not 100% certain on this, but here goes anyway. I think that the entire louver insert is chromed, then the inner portion is painted with a dull aluminum finish paint. It may have been Argent Silver possibly. The outer edge or lip remains chrome with no paint.

Shannon

[Joe L.]

Re: 1968/69 Side Louvres

Wes-----

Believe it or not, these louver trim inserts, used only on an optional basis for the 1969 model year, are still available from GM. The left side part number is GM #3945247 and the right side is GM #3945248. Both are the original part numbers. However, the finish varies a little bit from the originals. They currently GM list for $24.92/each and 4 of each part number are required for a complete car set.

[Jeffrey S.]

Re: 1968/69 Side Louvres

Wes
Shannon is correct. The entire piece is flash chrome plated and then painted. I did mine years ago by first stripping off all paint using paint stripper. I then painted the entire piece with Argent Silver paint. When they were dry I used laquer thinner on a rag and wiped the paint off the edges. They came out great.
Hope this helps.
Jeff