Anyone know the specific differences between an early and late '68? What were the main improvements made in late '68 models? Were the late '68's essentially the same as a '69?

Thanks,
Steve

'68s had so many changes throughout the model year, it'd be hard to call any '68 an early or late. There was an early and late position for the outside mirror, early and late interior door panels, seat releases, and more I can't begin to think of right now.

There were some significant changes from '68 to '69. Most are not readily visible. The '68's in general were known for sloppy quality control, and this was supposedly improved for the '69 model year. The door opening mechanisms were changed...the '68's used a button, after that the chrome "flapper" opened the doors. The ignition switch was moved from the dash to the steering column in '69. The frame was stiffened in '69 because of complaints about rattles. The door panels were changed in '69, and the steering wheel was reduced an inch in diameter as well. The '69's also had the "Stingray" script on the front quarter panels, plus the 15"x7" wheels used in '68 were increased to 15"x8" in '69.

There's some other changes, but these are the most recognizable ones.

Hmmm....well none of the changes stated so far sound much like quality control improvements. Other than the modified frame to reduce rattling. So what exactly were the quality control issues? So far, I haven't heard of any.

Steve

In '68 there were many complaints about poor fit and finish of body panels, upholstery, poor paint, rattles, etc., compared to the '67's. Since the '68's were a new body style, I guess one can say some problems could be expected, but the introduction for the C3 was delayed a year, so it seems such things should have been ironed out ahead of time.

I would hope that after 30+ years, many if not most of these problems should be corrected by owners through restoration, etc. I know my '69 which was carefully maintained and restored by past owners looks better than it must have originally.

You will see that there are a lot more roadsters in 68 than t-top cars. Apparently they started to have a single top go across the whole car, but because of flexing, etc. they went with the t-bar down the middle to help strengthen the body. This change delayed the production of the t-top cars. They also had problems with overheating in the early cars. They did some adjustements to the front valance area. I don't know when they started, but apparently to cool better, the factory cut out more of the valance area for improved air flow. In January of 68 they changed the transistor ignition module to a pig tail unit. This carried into the 69 car as well. They also added a saddle interior mid-way through the production schedule. If you look at all of the color codes, etc. none of them list a saddle interior. But if you look at the NCRS technical guide, it shows that saddle was added sometime in 1968. The seat belts are different on the early vs. late 68 cars. The early belts mounted under the seat had a reel unit that is somewhat different from the later model.

Mark

So the main Quality Control issues were panel fit, overheating and rattling? Nothing else? So all of these can be remedied fairly easily I would think during a restoration. Anything that can't be?

So far, I'm not hearing enough negatives to scare me away from a '68.

Steve

I don't think anyone is trying to scare you away from buying a '68. There are simply a few issues specific to them to be aware of. The stock rally wheels were one year only, the door locks were for '68 only, no map pockets which began in '69, one year only door panels. If the car has been restored before, most quality control issues should have been cared for. If you plan on restoring it, you will take care of these issues.

As I said, if you plan on a correct restoraion, it will be slightly more difficult. If it's not to be a correct restoration due to say, a non-original engine or transmission, simply do whatever you like and enjoy the hell out of the car.

Hi

Some more minor 68 only parts are the windshield upper corner moldings. Not reproduced and not available anymore. The 69 version does fit, but is incorrect.
The fender upper aft lip stainless moldings are also 68 only. So is the wiper door actuator, only has a 1/4 shaft versus 69 has a 5/16 shaft.
Pax side dash panel has no pouch.
Radio has 68 only knobs. Available again as reproduction.
68 Big block radiators have no expansion tank.
Front wheel spindles are thinner as 69 and up.
And many more 68 only features.
Many people don't like the 68 due to this hard to find 68 specials, but this cars are unique and 1 ( one ) year only.
The first shark and a very special car.

Rgds. Gunther