Original Door Panels and Sun Visors vs Repro

[Kirk M.]

Can anyone give me any pointers as how to determine original 1967 door panels and sun visors from reproduction parts? Thanks.

Kirk

[Donald T.]

Re: Original Door Panels and Sun Visors vs Repro

Can anyone give me any pointers as how to determine original 1967 door panels and sun visors from reproduction parts? Thanks.

Kirk

The door panels can easily be distinguished by examing the back of the panel. However, assuming they are still on the car, then there is a distinct difference in feel. Originals have a softer foam padding and have more give in them, the repros are pretty stiff and hard to the touch. Once you have felt them side by side, it's pretty easy to distinguish by feel. I don't recall if there are differences in the visors.

[Kirk M.]

Re: Original Door Panels and Sun Visors vs Repro

Thanks. Just trying to figure out whether mine have been replaced or not.

[Mike M.]

Re: Original Door Panels and Sun Visors vs Repro

Kirk,
from an original perspective, a few obious key points at a glance are:
The grain is less pronounced.
The finish may appear less glossy
The door panel edges are more subtle, ie, at and around the armrest.
The top fit at the vent is fairly tight, straight and true,
The embossed circles will be uniformly centered behind the window/vent cranks and also allow room for the collar and plastic washer.
The panel will be centered within and line-up flush with the front and rear door edges.
The "Cat Whiskers" are retained with natural steel staples, no rivets.
Sun shade stitching typically is wider.
The binding grain is rougher.
The Stainless Steel clip is shorter.
The screw and the upper retainer with the protruding point are natural steel.
Replacement hardware is typically all Stainless Steel.
There is more, but, I have to run to a soccer game.
HaND