How to identify an original 1969 dashpad?

[VI009DZ]

I've read that some dash pad replacements had a smooth spot on them, some did not, and that most replacement pads really fit poorly.  The pad on my '69 is curled above the glovebox like many others, and I bought a replacement from someone selling an original GM dash removed to make a pro-touring car.  I got the dash, and it certainly does look old, but it also looks very different than the dash on my car, which I assume is probably original to the car.

My dash is fairly grainy with the material used, and the "stitching" around the top edge and perimeter of the dash shows excellent detail.  The dash I got is not quite as grainy on the material,  and doesn' show the extreme detail of the one in the car.  It still shows the stitching, but not as clearly.

There are no part numbers, markings or anything on the replacement I got, and I haven't removed the dash in the car to see if it indeed has any GM stickers or anything on it. 

Your thoughts??

[Jerry@CHP]

Just about all of the NOS pads have a bald spot right in the center.  Originals that have survived in cars do not have it. 

We have used the OERs and they do fit pretty nice and install nicely too.  We like them and prefer them over a bald spot NOS pads.  Some of the NOS pads we see are junk.

Credit wise at a national judged event, it's a toss up.  You'll lose points on condition w/an NOS pad and loose points on originality with the OER.  Pick your poison.  Much cheaper with the OER and points wise you'll wind up about the same.

Jerry

[VI009DZ]

Thanks Jerry.....does either pad have a part number, markings, or stampings on the underside to show that its a GM pad?  The replacement I got has NOTHING but some sheet metal exposed in several areas that is a little rusted over. 

I know there is a place that restores 67-68 dashes, but they don't touch '69 stuff, correct?  The dash material I have is in excellent shape; its just curled above the glovebox and a little on the windshield-side.  It would be great if I could somehow glue it back int place, but I've got a feeling that just won't work.

-adam