Thought I had created a thread on this subject years ago but could not find it so creating another. If the old one is found I will merge these two together.
As we get more examples and collect information it has been helpful to revisit the subject again and update the information and details. This thread relates only to 65 San Jose and not other years or plants
The thread focuses on the small section of carpet glued to the lower front edge of the large quarter panel trim panels on both sides of 65 San Jose fastbacks.
The basic findings currently is that two different versions - possibly different suppliers - were created and installed on the assembly line. One with the edges left unfinished
And another version where the top and outer edges were finished like some edges found on the rear floor carpet section as shown below. Yellow arrow - finished edge Green arrow - unfinished edge
There are some additional examples shown in the Unrestored Picture threads here on the site.
Have not as yet graphed the examples to see if there is a pattern in the findings as to which were installed on the car assembly line during which production periods
For decades the companies reproducing the carpets have been providing these little sections with all of the sides of the carpet section finished off. Since these can be found on otherwise unrestored cars the carpet looks old and often leads owners and builders to believe that the section is original when its not. Carpets were often the first thing replaced when freshening a car up in the 70's
