I'm tearing apart the interior for a stereo replacement, sound deadening, heat insulation, etc (you know, while I'm at it). My center shift console is pretty beat up and I'm looking to replace it.
I see that you can order consoles for the different years (69, 70, 71), but just wondering what the difference is, if any, between the different years.
Will a 1970 console work in my 1971?
Thanks in advance for any feedback. :)

 

It's basically in the grain. Consoles should physically interchange 68-76. 68-71 have a hole for the fiberoptic indicator in the front, 72-76 don't. 68-9, 70, and 71 have 3 different grain patterns.

 

Another thing to watch is the quality of the repop consoles. I have a spare CE products version for my '69 that has an all plastic finish that doesn't compare well with the vinyl covered original. The construction is very stout, however. I ended up doing some fiberglas work on the inside of my original to make it useable.

Hans

 

.....the '71 console is unique in that there are ears at the top with grooves that the dash panels fit into.......70 and earlier do not have these ears....... :cheers:

 

Thanks for the replies. I guess I'll try to find a good 71 console.

 

I'll only charge you $10 to take it off your hands.
I guess mine doesn't look TOO bad campared to that. :yesnod:

 

Hear is some more detail regarding the differences.

68 not sure of exact differences on this year
69 is unique with fiber optics, madrid grain, and no stitching.(same as 70 without stitching)
70 is unique because the dash ears are longer and where the dash meets the console there is an indentation not quite like the groove of the 71, it has stitching, fiber optics and madrid grain.
71 is unique because the dash ears are shorter and the ears or groove in the console is more noticeable. There is still stitching, fiber optics and madrid grain.
72 - 76 is the same, stitching and no fiber optics with the dash ears being shorter and the console has obvious ears and madrid grain.

I have learned all this in attempting to find an original unbroken black console for my 70. My original looks like the one pictured only black!

If you look in the Eckler's catalog, you can see the differences somewhat.

Basically you will need and 71 only console. A site sponsor Corvette Works will fix you up with the Corvette America piece which he claims fits perfectly.

Scott is a great source for parts at Corvette Works.

None of the repros have exactly matched the original grain and stitching. This is only a concern if you plan on having your car judged.

Bill