Front Bumper Gap
Q: Front Bumper Gap
I just bought a 1968 coupe here in Oklahoma and the front bumper has a gap of 1/2 to 3/4″ between the rear of the bumper and the front bodywork (fenders and hood). Is there supposed to be a filler strip between the bumper and bodywork, or is the bumper too far forward?
A: There should be a rubber filler behide the bumper.
A: My 1968 has a black rubber filler and is the same distance. I also found this in the Dealer Technical Bulletins that sounds like it applies in this case:
PONTIAC MOTOR DIVISION Number 67-1-5 Section 14 Data 9/22/67
Dealer Service Information Bulletin
Attention: Service Manager
Subject: 1968 TEMPEST HOOD TO BUMPER CLEARANCE (EXCEPT GTO)
Some concern has been expressed over the appearance of the gap between the front bumper and hood on the 1968 Tempest. Reports have been received of attempts to eliminate this gap by setting the bumper rearward. This practice should be discontinued immediately.
Proper clearance is 3/4″. This can be checked by simply inserting a dime into the gap. It is important that there is 3/4″ clearance to prevent the hood and front fenders from damage due to minor impacts.
SERVICE DEPARTMENT
P0NTIAC MOTOR DIVISION
GENERAL M0TORS CORPORATION
Read, Initial & Pass On – Service Supervision Parts Accounting
I did not find any reference to the rubber filler in the 1968 Service Manual and Fisher Body Service Manual.
A: First, there is a black filler strip that goes around each edge of the chrome bumper. It attaches to the plastic grill assembly. Look at section 14 of the 1967 Firebird Service manual, it tells exactly how the bumper is to be attached.
Second, be aware of the possibilty that your front bumper is twisted. This is VERY common for the 1967-1968 bumpers. They are long and easily twisted without noticeable dents or other clues. Fortunately they can be muscled into place if the twist isn’t too bad, but from personal experience I know that even putting a true, straight one on correctly is a process requiring patience.
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