rear bumper question

<font face='Comic Sans MS'>Yep, the concave profile is the way the bumper should be.</font id='Comic Sans MS'>

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Anouther bumper question: would it be better to have an original quality rechromed or just buy a quality reproduction?

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Another bumper question: would it be better to have an original quality rechromed or just buy a quality reproduction?

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<font face='Comic Sans MS'>Repops go for what, perhaps $90 to $100, while a rechrome is probably in the 150/175 plus area. So from that standpoint the repop makes sense. The most recent repop examples I've seen from Dynacon (sp?) have a finish and smoothness much better than other aftermarket vendor products, and are in the just over $100 range ,at least from the local Mustang parts vendor here in Austin.

On the other hand, originals as I understand, are date code stamped. If that is the case a stamped bumper would be vital for a top line restoration, and a replate makes sense (I've a couple of originals and darned if I can find any stamped date info on either of them).</font id='Comic Sans MS'>

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I got a set of repro bumpers for a 65 Fastback and found them to be at the best, moderately ok. The problem was the edges were rough with sharp pieces of metal sticking up, enough to cut fingers if you were dumb enough to rub them on the edge (I wasn't). This was a result of the stamping process and from either worn out tooling or poor new tooling. The size, finish and fit were good, no twists, no problems with the mounting holes. I put a coat of wax on them before installation which provided me with the opportunity for a detailed inspection.

On the other hand, a friend that restores brand 'C' stuff told me of a local bumper chrome shop that could be named 'the Little Shop of Horrors' (grind marks, pits, plating that did not stick). Three returns for rework and the bumpers are still not done right.

However, I still think the better way to go is with your old bumpers and a reputable chrome shop.

Jim

Original bumpers are date coded on the underside. If you want authenticity you might want to go that route and seek out referrals to a good chrome shop.

The rear bumpers are reverse date-stamped and pretty much impossible to see once installed on the car. When I do restorations, I'll go with the older paper-wrapped NOS rears, but always re-plate fronts.