Tthe rear view mirror is delaminating in the 70 GS. So I deceided to get a new repro mirror from Ground Up Restorations in Connecticut. They cater to the Chevelle crowd. They list a repro 12" GM rear view mirror in their catalong for 49.95 under pt # IM6812. Its listed as an EXACT REPRODUCTION I received it today and at first glance, its a very nice repro. Nice stainless back, the gray plastic band it nice and crisp looking. Naturally, it isnt stamped "Guide Glare Proof" at the top, nor does it say "Made in USA" as the original does. The stainless backing is slightly loose as well. It moves from side to side about 3/16" of an inch within the gray plastic band. Negligable up down movement. In looking at it next to the original, I notice that it's slightly smaller. The GM original measures exactly 12" as its supposed to, while the repro measures 11 1/2. Its a nice mirror and the glass is crystal clear, but if your going to use the phrase, "exact reproduction" it better be EXACT. Its better than a delaminted original, but far from exact. It's really a poorly made mirror mande in Taiwan. It should really be listed as an offshore "replacement", but they probably wouldnt sell any. Maybe the Chevelle guys arent as particular? Im tempted to call them and give them a piece of my mind. I's like to hear your thoughts.
Seems there's often a dimensional issue w/offshore repros...must be conversion from inches to metric.o No: Call if it'll make you feel better, but doubt will change anything. You've already made best move...report findings here.:TU: Repro feedback, good and bad, is much appreciated...
I am glad I overpaid for a nice original a few years ago. Very few reproductions are made properly. Are we more picky because we are Buick guys?
Give them a blast & put your mind at ease. I just bought an "exact" repro. turn signal lever for my '71. Not cheap & it's a whole 1-1/2" longer than an original. I put it on the shelf & bought a NOS piece from a member here. Well worth the money. Repro vendor wasn't too concerned. Some repro. products are right on-rear valance filler, any interior I've purchased from Legendary, 71-72 wheel centres, coolant reservoirs & hoses etc.. Some really miss the mark-door handles, door handle gaskets, weather strip kits, sunvisor brackets, etc..
I called Ground Up today. Surprisingly, the guy on the phone was interested in what I had to say and seemd genuinely concerned. He took down my issues and told me he was going to forward it to the powers that be. He was also going to put in to have the wording changed in the catalog. He mantioned that it seemed to be already changed on the website. He says the Chevelle guys are picky too. :grin: I told him I was till going to use it, but I was just disapponted. He apologized and sent me out a free T-shirt. Who knows, maybe it'll prompt them to make a better repro.
I don't think so. I just think that when you read the word "reproduction" you hope it lives up to the definition of the word. Reproduction - 1. The action or process of making a copy of something Most places instead are selling "Poor Imitations". :error:
So after settling for the defects, I go to install it and find another glaring problem- notice now the mounting stem is curved so the mirror tucks up against the windshield. Now look at the repro. I think this put it over the top. I'll call them and try and return it. I would of had better luck getting one at the local auto parts store. It would of been cheaper too. Overall I have to give this a big thumbs down
CLegs, Input is good. We are somewhat lucky with repro. stuff though. My son's 1 year owned 1990 Pontiac Sunbird Convert. has nothing reprod, have to go boneyard like my cousin's husband's AMX stuff usually...... cya. Mike - neighbors from strong island
Jason that is unbelievable. Sometimes I do not know how the hell this stuff gets through QA. I mean, you would think that someone would place them side by side like you did BEFORE putting it on the market. The sad thing is even if they did someone looked at that and said "looks great, ship it"! ou: You need to send them that pic.
LOL An apology and a tee shirt don't fix the next guy's problem with the same piece. So basically he had to pay for a tee shirt he did not want, an apology and a part he can't use. Great.
Yes we posted many times about restoring the originals. http://www.v8buick.com/showthread.php?t=144084&highlight=hair+dryer+pop
Yea thanks Jim. I've got a good after market but its grey on the outside and a touch smaller, my original is a little larger and black. May have to eat a Popsicle or two... :beers2:
The re pop is 1/2" too small to do that. A glass shop should be able to provide a proper fitting mirror cheaper anyway. I think rebuilding the original is the way to go. If you were going to use that thing, you would be better off just buying a generic replacement and gluing it to the window. Wrong part is wrong part so I would rather have a better made wrong part.
