C1 trunk mat & vendor issues

[Lauchlan F.]

Three days ago after $275 plus $55 UPS Ground I received a blue trunk mat for my 1961 Jewel Blue, non-power top, car that I've owned since 1965. I have the original mat but it was abused, rolled up and Texas-heated when I got it with the car. Now, it shatters into hundreds of pieces just looking at it. But, one thing is sure: top surface was smooth and flat save the tooled pattern of ridges. My new mat (sealed in plastic bag) has particles all over the finished (top) surface that remind me of steel-cut oat cereal or Grape Nuts cereal though 1/3 the size. I've read all the archives plus over the years' recollection I've never seen a rough mat. Now this vendor/manufacturer from FAR West Texas has a good rep., but I'm not well versed in restoration and a neophyte at mail order. Other than read the return policy; how to proceed?

Thanks for the help, Lauchlan

[Terry D.]

Re: C1 trunk mat & vendor issues

Always ask the vendor if their repo part will pass judging, the good ones will tell you the truth. Most also will state whether it is an exact replica or just a repo. Did you call them and express your concern? Again the good ones will take it back if you are not satisfied.
Terry

[Lauchlan F.]

Re: C1 trunk mat & vendor issues

Thank you, Terry! Considering the reputation of this vendor/manufacturer (A.K.), I'm surprised. Have you ever seen/heard of a granular surfaced mat? How about one with overspray (blue) on the back? Never read about that. It has white paint/dye stamp numerals on a blue that looks non-metallic, whereas my "original" has a dull metallic sheen that more closely matches the Jewel Blue car color. Mat has "US" and "60" encircled seperately on either side of the white part number oblong. I am "officially" partially color blind (blue, green and purple); but from what my eyes do tell me, this mat also looks turquoise/blue with no metallic sheen but like shiny, new enamel.

Has anyone had the same impression, or am I justed whacked?

Also, there's no (date?) stenciling on the back side? An examination of the packaging and shipping documents indicates no third party source (actual manufacturer other than A.K.). Usually, who pays for the return freight?

Thanks Terry, I will be contacting the vendor. Any suggestions for a different vendor?

Lauchlan

[Thomas H.]

Re: C1 trunk mat & vendor issues

The original one in my 60 (that also breaks into more pieces when you look at it) is smooth. I was thinking about getting one of the new ones, but maybe I'll wait for Carlisle where I can see it in person. I'll take one of my many pieces along for comparison.

Tom

[Lauchlan F.]

Re: C1 trunk mat & vendor issues

The original one in my 60 (that also breaks into more pieces when you look at it) is smooth. I was thinking about getting one of the new ones, but maybe I'll wait for Carlisle where I can see it in person. I'll take one of my many pieces along for comparison.

Tom

Hey Tom, Maybe one of these years I can convince my Pennsylvania hard coal miner's daughter of a bride to take a trip home during Carlisle. In the mean time, if you'd be so kind, please survey the displays, offerings and vendors for metallic blue mats suitable for a 1961 Jewel Blue and let us all know. Its tough to deal with vendors from overseas or Alaska 'cuz they choke on paying freight both ways (returns).

Typical conversation: "Is Alaska in the United States?" "Yes it is dear/son; continental but not contiguous." "Conti...What? Oh, our free shipping doesn't apply unless you're an American."