Console Differences
 

I acquired two consoles recently: the tan one is in pretty good shape except for rusty trim, the blue one needs some repair so I am taking it apart and trying to duplicate what others have done in restoring and painting them. Both consoles appear to have spent several years outside.

Interestingly both have GMC emblems - I don't have a GMC, I don't know if they are slightly more rare - and although they were sold to me with 73-75 buckets, they are the seatbelt pocket version that I think was only native to the 69-72.

I am wondering if all of this version of console were identical:

• These two have different hinges on them, for starters. Could have been replaced by PO but both look pretty factory. One is just a regular piano hinge, the other is more substantial.
  
• Could the six extra holes on the front of the blue one possibly be factory as well... or if I should fill them in during the restoration process. Can't imagine what would have gone there. "Jimmy" or "CST"? Or just a cupholder added by PO?
  
• The placement of the two front screws that hold the top to the bottom appear to be different as well.

Again, at a glance both of these are identical, just seeing if an expert knows about any subtle differences. I am sure most people wouldn't care but I am one of those who enjoys learning about this stuff.

Re: Console Differences
 

the 6 screw hinges were the early ones and the extra 6 holes in front were probably for an 8 track or CB mounting , only 2 holes/ screws in the front . The GMC emblems are harder to find than the Chevy emblem . :chevy:

Re: Console Differences
 

Seat belt style was used into the mid 70s. The hinge difference was an upgrade, but not sure what year they changed.

Re: Console Differences
 

I don't know when the hinge was revised but always thought it was after 1972.

For the record, the top and bottom sections of the console original to my early (Dec., 1968) '69 CST are held together by rivets inside the console which are not visible from the outside. I have no idea how long rivets were used, but based on a discussion we had here about 9 years ago, it is rare. Below are pictures of the console and a factory assembly manual page from the 1969 portion.

Re: Console Differences
 

Thanks for the information, very interesting!

Re: Console Differences
 

I sent you a PM