Early 69 Grills

[Greg L.]

Are the early (up to Jan 31, 1969) grills the same as the 68 in configuration or only to the degree that the front edges are silver? I'm getting ready to apply the silver to mine but started to wonder if I have to make other changes or do I just paint them the way the 68 grills were? Also if anyone could post a few good clear pics of where the silver paint should be that would really be appreciated. Thanks.

[John C.]

Re: Early 69 Grills

Greg

The 68 and 69 grills have a slightly different configuration. The 69 grills have additional reinforcements to make them stronger. The current 68/69 JG has a picture of the differences.

They are painted the same way with the exception that all the horizontal ribs were painted in 68, and in 69 the top one typically was not. The ribs have a step in them. Everything up to the step is painted. Note that the vertical end ribs are not painted. I would call the paint more of an aluminum color than silver.

The attached pictures show a 69 grill and its painting.

John

[Greg L.]

Re: Early 69 Grills

Thanks John, that's just what I was lookng for.

[Terry B.]

Re: Early 69 Grills

Greg,

Very early original '69 cars have been found to have used the '68 grills. I guess they used them until supplies ran out.

Terry

[Greg L.]

Re: Early 69 Grills

Thanks Terry. Mine was built Jan 31 so I'd think that it would have used the 69 style grill. What are your thoughts on this?When I bought the car back in 88 the end grills were missing but the center grill was still there and it had the aluminum colored leading edges so I know that is correct for my car.

[Terry B.]

Re: Early 69 Grills

Hi Greg,

A January 31 build for your '69 ( Happy Birthday ) would not be considered an early build for having the '68 grills. I believe your center grill is painted as John mentioned and that should be correct. Double check in the latest 68/69 TJM to be sure.

Terry