Composite fiberglass parts - no response from Lee Bumb Composites - any help?

[Glen P.]

I am doing a frame off restoration on a 65 FI coupe. The car has had the front turn signals shaved and small flares on the rear fenders. I have the chassis and motor done and now ready to move to the body needs. From local discussions the Lee Bumb composites are touted as the best. I have called and emailed and no response to order their products. Are they out of business? If not who handles the best composite replacement fiberglass pieces I am needing. I am a new member and appreciate any help from the more experienced NCRS members. Thank you.

[Frank D.]

Re: Composite fiberglass parts - no response from Lee Bumb Composites - any help?

Not sure what you are calling "composite"; SMC panels ??

For OEM style glass, I'd go with Corvette Image (and I did)...

[Ron G.]

Re: Composite fiberglass parts - no response from Lee Bumb Composites - any help?

Glen,

I cannot tell you much about SMC replacement fiberglass, but what I do believe to be correct is that SMC was first used in production in late 1971. I am not sure if aftermarket body panels were SMC or not. However, perhaps one of my 70 -72 judging counterparts can offer their opinion as well.

- Ron

[Glen P.]

Re: Composite fiberglass parts - no response from Lee Bumb Composites - any help?

Thank you for the responses. Just trying to do it right and appreciate all the help I can get.

[Richard G.]

Re: Composite fiberglass parts - no response from Lee Bumb Composites - any help?

I was confused until I figured out Lee Bumb Composites used to be SERMERSHEIM'S FIBERGLASS.
A couple years ago I purchased rear fenders from them. Customer service was top notch as was the product.
If you are on the Right Coast purchasing from Indiana, instead of Greshum Oregon, could save a bunch on postage.
I have used both vendors and could see little differences in quality in most the parts I purchased anyway.
I wouldn't use the 1963 exhaust valance from Corvette Image. Mine required, what I thought was, excessive work to get the SS exhaust bezels to fit correctly. Valances for other years my be fine as the exhaust ports are different.

[Jack H.]

Re: Composite fiberglass parts - no response from Lee Bumb Composites - any help?

Yeah, "Composites" is just part of the name of the renamed company and not necessarily the materials used depending on year/application: "Lee Bumb Composites, Inc"...and yes it's the former Sermersheims company. I don't know about now, but they used to be the best source for aftermarket body panels IMHO. I really hope they are not out of business now.

[Greg H.]

Re: Composite fiberglass parts - no response from Lee Bumb Composites - any help?

Hi Glen,
As an option I recommend you call David Solowoski. David has stacks of body panels and parts. Look for his number in the Restorer Magazine.

You may be able to just blend in the turn signal body panels without replacing the total front clip.

[Rex M.]

Re: Composite fiberglass parts - no response from Lee Bumb Composites - any help?

Back in the early 70's I was a molder (Press operator) at Gen Tire & Rubber. We changed from Mat & Resin to SMC (Sheet Molding Compound) at that time. So, If you want original panels look for "Dark Grey to Black" panels as they are made from Mat & Resin. If your installing light grey panels they are ones that were produced after 1971. The same mold was used and Eckler's has it. I don't know if they mold the parts anymore?

[Ronald L.]

Re: Composite fiberglass parts - no response from Lee Bumb Composites - any help?

I think they do have that mold or LB has it as I have seen the codes inside look like the repro - but - get original!

Lots of us have stashes and or get originals from the known big names, have you googled Tracy Performance,

they must have every panel for a C2 original and in hand layup if that's what your after - Even 63 split windows - nos panel still in GM crates,

if you're on the west coast, David's place is good day-trip, tho I do not recall that much C2 glass out back, mostly C1.

[Frank D.]

Re: Composite fiberglass parts - no response from Lee Bumb Composites - any help?

Corvette Image (and maybe others) will provide the "blonde" panels used on early 63s:

[Glen P.]

Re: Composite fiberglass parts - no response from Lee Bumb Composites - any help?

I am happy to say Lee Bump Composites contacted me. They were very knowledgeable about the parts I need for my restoration and pleasant to assist me in selecting the parts to order. I placed my order and there is about a 6 week lead time for them which fits my schedule. Thanks to everyone for the responses.