I'm looking for a dashboard trim/switch plate equipped with two switch openings in very good/excellent condition for my Skylark convertible. I currently have the stock single-switch trim plate which mounts the convertible top up/down switch, but I want to perform a stock-appearing installation for a second switch. Take a look at the attached modified photo for clarification. The plates I'm interested in were installed on 1970-72 Skylark/GS convertibles equipped with rear window defrosters. That may also be the case for certain station wagons equipped with electric tailgate windows and rear window defrosters. Please, no cracked, chipped or damaged plates. Including a functional lower switch (defrost function) for a reasonable price would be helpful, but not necessary (including the switch, I mean). Thank you in advance for your help.
Any possibility this can be made from 2 plates? I was thinking cut a convert plate and a defrost plate. plastic weld the seam then add some graining then rechrome and repaint. I was going to do this with my defrost cruise but found one on Ebay. Is the Buick Farm still in operation. After buying mine off ebay I found a NOS defrost unit there for like 100 and it had the palte in it i just paid 150 for
George, I was afraid of that (extremely rare). Even if I came across one, I doubt my conscience wouldn't let me modify something that rare (which is what I was considering doing). John, I thought about that, but I'm not sure I'm skillful or patient enough to perform an invisible splice of the two panel halves. Another option is to just purchase another one like the one I have and modify it. That way, I could save the one in the car now so I can go back to factory stock if I wish. I think I'll post another ad for one just like mine and, possibly, try what you suggested. Thank you for the responses, gentlemen.
I bought my pastic welder and have had great results fixing plastic parts like fan shrouds 4 wheeler panels dash bezels so it can be done I think. I got a bunch of the dash pieces and if I can find the time I'll try it. If I can do it I may create a convertible cruise and defrost plate even more rare
That's the one, but you should tell me what you think it's worth. I have no idea. I do know that it's be worth more to the guy who's needs it to finish the restoration of a properly equipped GS convertible than it is to me. By the way, anything cracked or broken on the front or back of it. A photo of the backside and description of its overall condition would help me figure out what I'd be willing to pay. Thanks Mike.
To quote the American pickers the time to buy is when you see it. My opinion is worth nothing but I paid 150 for a NOS cruise defrost plate and I know of a guy that paid a lot more for a NOS cruise/defrost/convertible plate. I think that anything under 100 is a good price if its all intact
Yes, I agree, and was hoping some day someone with an original Stage 1 conv would need one. Not for the money, but for having a hard-to-find part for a special car. Are you adding the defogger to your car? Do you have the other relevant components? In case you don't know, a '70 duct will not work on a '71 or '72. I'll get pics of back side tonight. Mike
Hey Mike! I'm still interested in seeing a photo of the backside of the panel and a description of the overall condition of it (Cracks, chips, broken tabs, etc). I hope to install a rectangular-shaped lighted on-off rocker switch in the lower cut-out. The intent is to make it so the switch install looks as stock as possible. I have no plans to install a rear window defroster, though. I mean, this is Southern California. What the heck is "frost"??? :laugh: I'm sending a PM with more info.
For what it's worth, it's OK by me if Mike (72staged) sells it to you instead of me. Considering those things apparently don't grow on trees, and (I assume) your car is properly equipped to use the panel as the Buick gods originally intended, you're the one who should get it. I haven't heard from him for a while, so I think your chances ending up with it are better than mine anyway. By the way, what switch panel is currently installed in your car? If you decide you can part with it, I may be able to put it to good use.
Mike is a very busy guy..has his own business..met him several times...excellent Buick guy...give him a lil time.
Hi Dan, I'm in line, you have first right of refusal and I really appreciate your gesture. :TU: The Buick Gods have a way of working things out for those who are patient and I still have many other parts to track down for my GS.
Not sure if this would help you bt I have several defrost plates and would send you one for a small donation to the board. it would take me some time to find these but I have several thats why I thought about cutting 2 to make 1
I know this is an older post but I have one of these also. Curious as to what they're worth as I may sell it. Did a sale take place? If so anyone care to mention what $$$ were swapped?
