C1 dash end caps

[Timothy A.]

I installed a new dash in my June 1959 last year and put on new end caps that cover the entire corner of the dash end (the later style). They never have fit quite right and so here is my question: I picked up the flat 58 style that I heard was used on early 59's. What would be the cut off date for using this flat style on my 59? I think I like the flat style better and would rather user them instead of the later ones. Oh yeah, when I got the car, it had on homemade end caps that copied the later style......boy did they look like crap. Thanks,

Tim Allen 46673

[Bob B.]

Re: C1 dash end caps

Tim,

I think that the flat dash end caps are okay through most of 1959. The 1960 cap that goes around much of the end just started in late 1959 model production. Being in June 1959, there were a couple more months of 1959 production to go.

However, if you can actually use the 1958-59 style flat cap, that tells me that the end of your dash pad has not been cut off, which is probably why the 1960 style cap doesn't fit. To use the 1960 cap, the end of the dash pad is cut off and this is hidden by use of the 1960 cap.

Attached is a pic of the end of an original 1960 dash. As you can see, there is no vinyl to put the small 1958-59 cover against. You will also note the groove left by the edge of the 1960 cap. Does yours now have a permanent groove from using the 1960 cap?

I think I'd go with the 1958-59 cap if you can.

Bob

[Ted S.]

Re: C1 dash end caps

Tim, did you put on repros or original end caps? The originals look slightly different than the originals. The originals come to a point rather than being cut at an angle on the end. Can you post a pic showing the fit?