For enthusiasts diving into the restoration or maintenance of 1967 and 1968 Chevrolet Impalas, it’s crucial to understand that sourcing Cars Impala Parts presents unique challenges. Unlike some other classic American cars, the 67 and 68 Impala models often require a different approach to parts acquisition. This guide will help you navigate the landscape of cars impala parts, ensuring your project stays on track.
One of the first lessons to learn is to avoid assumptions. While parts for Chevrolet Camaros, Chevelles, or Ford Mustangs might be readily available, the same doesn’t always hold true for Impalas of this era. Many components specific to the 1967 and 1968 Impala are not interchangeable with these other models, and aftermarket support can be limited. It’s wise to double-check compatibility before making any purchases.
A golden rule for working on these vehicles is to exercise caution before discarding any original components. When replacement parts are difficult to find or lack the correct original equipment (OE) specifications, preserving and refurbishing your existing parts becomes invaluable. This is especially true for body panels.
Inner fenders, both front and rear, are prime examples of hard-to-source cars impala parts. Specifically, direct replacements for 1967-68 rear inner fenders are not currently available. However, resourceful owners have found that 1965 and 1966 rear inner fenders can be adapted with modifications. Front fenders and half quarter panels are also notoriously difficult to locate, emphasizing the need for careful preservation of original body panels.
Despite these challenges, there are specialized resources for cars impala parts. An Australian vendor, active on platforms like eBay, has gained recognition for producing high-quality reproductions of problematic parts. Their trunk drop-offs, for instance, are known to more closely mirror the original design compared to some reproductions available in the USA.
For items like center consoles and emblems, the aftermarket does offer some solutions. While availability can vary depending on your specific Impala configuration (e.g., bench seat vs. console), reproduction emblems of good quality are generally accessible from suppliers like The Parts Place, Classic Industries, and Hubbards. For sheet metal needs, Mill Supply is often cited as a source with competitive pricing. Recently, the Australian vendor mentioned earlier has also started producing improved front lower fender patches and associated braces, addressing previously unmet needs in the market for cars impala parts.
In conclusion, restoring a 1967 or 1968 Impala requires patience and a strategic approach to finding cars impala parts. Prioritize preserving original components, be prepared to research thoroughly, and explore specialized vendors to overcome parts scarcity and bring your classic Impala back to its former glory.
