68 center console

[Jim R.]

Does anyone make the padded shifter surround center console for the 68 that fits good and is very close to the original.

[Blair K.]

Re: 68 center console

Very good question - I too would like to know.

[Rich G.]

Re: 68 center console

I didn't think the padded console was ever original. But I could be wrong. I'm interested to know.

Rich

[Jeff P.]

Re: 68 center console

Mine is still In Mint condition! How about Al Koach?? I hear they sell the Best fitting interior products. J/S

[John C.]

Re: 68 center console

Jim

In 1968 and 1969 the shifter center console was a plastic core wrapped in vinyl. I believe this is what you are referring to as the padded console. I don't think any of the reproductions have the same construction as the originals. The reproductions are just plastic with the grain molded in.

I know it won't be easy to find, but I would look for a good used original.

John

[Rich G.]

Re: 68 center console

John

Thanks. I see what you mean. I was thinking of the center arm rest that we sometimes see with a padded cushion.

Rich

[Cathy S.]

Re: 68 center console

No repros. Only source is a good original.

[Joe L.]

Re: 68 center console

Jim

In 1968 and 1969 the shifter center console was a plastic core wrapped in vinyl. I believe this is what you are referring to as the padded console. I don't think any of the reproductions have the same construction as the originals. The reproductions are just plastic with the grain molded in.

I know it won't be easy to find, but I would look for a good used original.

John

John------


Yes, all 1968-76 forward consoles were a plastic substrate which was covered with madrid grain vinyl. There was some "padding" between the vinyl and the plastic. It was not a thick padding but if one presses one's finger against the vinyl, it's obvious there's some sort of soft padding underneath the vinyl.

The first reproductions of these consoles were done by EC Products of Atascadero, CA. These were simply monolithic molded plastic with an impressed grain pattern. They could easily be distinguished from the originals. But, for awhile, they were the "only game in town".

Sometime later, reproductions which were very similar to the originals in construction appeared. I presume these are still available but I certainly have not shopped lately. However, checking the Dr. Rebuild catalog, I see he sells this variety.

[Anthony S.]

Re: 68 center console

http://shop.docrebuild.com/1968-1976CorvetteShifterConsoleReplacesGM.aspx