70 Exhaust Bezels

[Bill L.]

Just received my originals back from being re-chromed.

What should the fit be around the rear quarters? They seem to stick out and do not fit flush with the quarter panels. I know the fit and finish was pretty poor to begin with but I am a little surprised they do not fit a little closer.

[D S.]

Re: 70 Exhaust Bezels

Do you recall if they fit flush before you removed them? Did you have them flash chromed or triple plated? I can't imagine either process would alter them to make them protrude.

Thanks,
Scott Sims
Texas Chapter

[Bill L.]

Re: 70 Exhaust Bezels

Well I looked at them again this morning and I guess they look pretty much like they did when removed. Now I know why some take soo many pictures as they go through this process.

I had them triple plated since they are in a location that generally does not wear very well. I talked it over with a very, very highly respected restoration shop. He explained the differences and the possible point deduction and I decided to go the triple plating route. They came out beautiful.

I will likely have my tips triple plated for the same reasons.

I really hate that flash chrome but understand why GM did it from a cost stand point. I will even have the original lousy chrome shielding top for judging purposes but a nice pretty chrome lid for me to enjoy

[Chuck S.]

Re: 70 Exhaust Bezels

Just received my originals back from being re-chromed.

What should the fit be around the rear quarters? They seem to stick out and do not fit flush with the quarter panels. I know the fit and finish was pretty poor to begin with but I am a little surprised they do not fit a little closer.

It's certain the rechrome didn't affect the fit-up, so the possibilities are: (1) During reinstallation, you've made minor changes in the positioning of the J-nuts, or haven't taken full advantage of the slop in the mounting holes to optimize the fit, or (2) You are now looking at your prized newly-chromed parts with a highly critical eye. The second possibility has happened to me...if the appearance of a component is improved considerably, its imperfections will become obvious...strange phenomenon.

I can't remember if the bezels are side specific, or the same part number. I can't access my AIM to check it for you. Check the part number(s) in the AIM...maybe you have them installed on the wrong sides.

[Warren F.]

Re: 70 Exhaust Bezels

The exhaust bezels are side specific. The originals are dated on the inside lip next to the part number. For this reason I have re-chromed several sets to have the original dated components. The original bezels fit pretty well. I would imagine that the hole for the J-nut may vary a little and this will cause the bezel to stick out some on some cars versus others. I have a Mar and Apr built '71's and the original bezels fit quite well.