Topic: Potential counterfeit 67 68 GT rear valance

[68Metuchen390GT]

I just received a 67-68 GT rear valance in the mail but I am highly suspect to it’s authenticity. The detail is not as good as the original and the spot welds are smaller especially on the license plate mount.

I have compared it side by side to a legit original GT rear valance that I own. The part I received is black and supposedly NOS. However the label appears to be off a box and has been superglued to the part. There are also missing parts of the label under the tape which makes me think they didn’t peel off the original box. I’m also sure Ford didn’t mail bare parts so the UPS postage sticker is probably off the box.

What I find more disturbing is the date code, the placement is much different than the original part. Is the placement always in the same spot on the rear valance?

I’d like to put it to the experts to see if I’m wrong or if there is something else I should look for. Thoughts?

[jwc66k]

The date code does look "fishy", but any of the other questionable items may be due to sloppy stamping and welding. I've seen worse on a 66 LH fender. It did fit though. That's the final criteria - does it fit?
Jim

[67gtasanjose]

Your valance looks more authentic than most aftermarket ones I have seen, particularly the cut-outs are where aftermarket ones miss the mark, yours looks right.

[Bossbill]

I have its twin -- almost. It's also black and had a Ford sticker on it once upon a time.

I bought it as a "Ford NOS" from Branda in 1992 according to the receipt.
It looks the same, albeit the welds are better at the lower through-bolt anchors.

However, mine has no date at all. Not sure if that is common.
But the lines on mine are crisp, just like the original one on my signature car.
And on yours.

[68Metuchen390GT]

I have its twin -- almost. It's also black and had a Ford sticker on it once upon a time.

I bought it as a "Ford NOS" from Branda in 1992 according to the receipt.
It looks the same, albeit the welds are better at the lower through-bolt anchors.

However, mine has no date at all. Not sure if that is common.
But the lines on mine are crisp, just like the original one on my signature car.
And on yours.

Here’s the NOS label and I use that term in the loosest sense


Richard

[ruppstang]

To me the date code is wrong. Most I have seen have the month and year. Different that the assembly line parts.

[RoyceP]

Looks like a '70's service part. A little different than 1960's NOS or assembly line but way better than a repro IMHO.