1961 Corvette Front License Bumperette Assembly

[Rob V.]

Hi--

I would appreciate a recommendation for a supplier/vendor where I can obtain an OEM (driver quality) front license bumperette assembly (e.g., bumperette; backplate; lower bar; clutch/head bolt/spacer; and bracket) for my '61 Vette. I have found the complete assmbly listed in the catalogue for one of the large commercial vendors that I use frequently; however, I suspect it is manufactured "off shore", and consequently, of questionable quality. Finally, I no longer look for items on ebay--I have been ripped off too many times by less than ethical/honest individuals.

Thanks in advance for your responses.

Rob

[Terry D.]

Re: 1961 Corvette Front License Bumperette Assembly

I doubt that you will find a Made in the USA assembly, but if you call the different vendors that handle that item they will tell you where hey are made. Another place to look is in the Driveline, it also has a wanted section, or go to one of the big swap meets like Carlisle or here on the NCRS board, oh that's right we don't have a parts section yet, but maybe soon.

[Calvin M.]

Re: 1961 Corvette Front License Bumperette Assembly

Rob, I have an in-the-box nos lower bumperette (3736263). Send me a PM if you'd like.

Cal

[Terry D.]

Re: 1961 Corvette Front License Bumperette Assembly

Forgot to ask if you had checked with any of the used Corvette vendors? Cranes, Grossmuellers, Stoudt are just a few

[Rob V.]

Re: 1961 Corvette Front License Bumperette Assembly

Hi Terry--

Thank you for the responses; I had hoped I would be provided the names of suppliers/vendors that carry "preowned" C-1 parts, and you did just that--than you! Hope you have a great week!


Rob

[Bruce B.]

Re: 1961 Corvette Front License Bumperette Assembly

Most of the reproduction bumperettes are made wrong since they have sharper edges on the front of the vertical pieces.
They look OK but will not pass judging I believe.

[Rob V.]

Re: 1961 Corvette Front License Bumperette Assembly

Hi Bruce--

Good information--thanks! My issue is the quality (or lack thereof) of the chrome on off-shore manufactured pieces. Years ago (1990) when restoring a Chevelle SS 396 El Camino, I replaced the OEM outside rearview mirror with a better looking reproduction mirror (made in Taiwan) shortly before being PCSed (transferred) to Illinois. After 6 months in Illinois during the winter months, the chrome on the new repro mirror was significantly pitted--I removed the mirror, threw it in the garbage, and reinstalled my 20+ year old stock mirror that I still had. That mirror remained in the same acceptable condition after 2 1/2 years more of the Illinois weather. Anyway, it is my personal bias that OEM parts (even used) are better than reproduction. As for my recently acquired 1961 Corvette, while in my possession it will be nothing more than a frequent driver that I can rip around in, and terrorize self respecting men, women and children--it will not be a restored show car.

Rob

[Rob V.]

Re: 1961 Corvette Front License Bumperette Assembly

Hi Calvin--

Sent you a PM. Thanks!

Rob

[Mike E.]

Re: 1961 Corvette Front License Bumperette Assembly

Most of the reproduction bumperettes are made wrong since they have sharper edges on the front of the vertical pieces.
They look OK but will not pass judging I believe.

And the other reproduction bumperettes that have the non-sharp profile are welded two-piece and also easily detectable.

[Bruce B.]

Re: 1961 Corvette Front License Bumperette Assembly

Rob,

Sounds like a good plan.
If you have quality concerns, give Keen Parts a call and question them about their chrome and do they stand behind the parts.
Bruce B

[Rob V.]

Re: 1961 Corvette Front License Bumperette Assembly

Hi Mike--

Another excellent point; and why I wish to keep my GM car all GM, even if it is a driver!!! Than you for information!

Rob