73 Bumper Replacment.
The front bumper on my '73 has finally starting cracking and appears ready to self destruct. I plan on replacing the entire bumper, since I'm sure any repairs would be short lived. I also plan on having the car flight judged in the not too distant future, so original appearance is at the top of my priority list. Any advice would be very appreciated.
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Re: 73 Bumper Replacment.
I believe a genuine urathane front bumper can still be obtained for the 73-74 but they are pricey. Good rear 74 bumpers do not exist.
I wish someone would use the oringinal molds injected with the material they make current auto bumpers out of. -
Re: 73 Bumper Replacment.
I put on a tru-flex bumper, looks awesome!The only way a judge could tell the difference is if he pushed on it (was advised judges can't-shouldn't do that), still though, it does have some 'give'. Kind of like an 'aged' urethane bumper. I've had it on the car for 6 years or so, still looks awesome.Comment
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Re: 73 Bumper Replacment.
The urethane bumpers were still serviced by GM last time I looked and the parts were of recent vintage. I couldn't see any difference bewtween these and assembly line stuff from '73 including the part number and font etc.
As you mentioned, not much point in trying to keep an original unless Bowtie judging is at stake.Comment
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Re: 73 Bumper Replacment.
After reading your post I looked up the original part number(6263597) and called GM parts. To my surprise, you are correct it is still available with a list price over $900.00 Denver warehouse has two. Guess I need to start saving for a new one while they are still available.Comment
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Re: 73 Bumper Replacment.
Thanks to everyone for their replies. 900.00 for the urethane is very pricey. Tru-flex may be more in line with my budget and sounds like it look very nice.Comment
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Re: 73 Bumper Replacment.
List is $916 and with a discount I was quoted $730.12Comment
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Re: 73 Bumper Replacment.
David,
The added benefit is that the Tru Flex can be painted without the flex agent. The color, once done, will match your body paint; no fade years from now.Comment
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Re: 73 Bumper Replacment.
Wow! Prices have gone up!
I bought a GM urethane front for my '74 back in '98, and it was $400...I thought THAT was high!
I think some of the normal vendors(Mid Am, Paragon, etc) offer the urethane front covers, too...not sure if the price is competitive or not without looking. I have installed some Tru-Flex covers, and they are quite flexible, considering the composition. Not as flimsy as the urethane, but no where near as stiff as 'glass.
Might as well plan on replacing the retainer strips, too...chances are most of the studs will snap off when you try to remove the nuts.Joel Adams
1974 Coupe
1985 Coupe
"I know the voices aren't real...but sometimes they have some really kewl ideas...."
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Re: 73 Bumper Replacment.
Wow! Prices have gone up!
I bought a GM urethane front for my '74 back in '98, and it was $400...I thought THAT was high!
I think some of the normal vendors(Mid Am, Paragon, etc) offer the urethane front covers, too...not sure if the price is competitive or not without looking. I have installed some Tru-Flex covers, and they are quite flexible, considering the composition. Not as flimsy as the urethane, but no where near as stiff as 'glass.
Might as well plan on replacing the retainer strips, too...chances are most of the studs will snap off when you try to remove the nuts.
You don't use the retainer strips with the firmer covers as you can't get them in place. Ecklers note says you have to use their retainers.Comment
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