I have seen a number of 67 San Jose cars with the protector in bare steel . Not to say it was the only way but have seen more that were bare steel then the dipped black on the 67 San Jose Shelby's I am used to looking at. In 68 it was just the oposite I don't think I have ever come across one that was bare steel on a 68 NJ car (Shelby again) . Just a few variations which may have to do with the plant and supply at the time IMHO. Bob