OK, I spot a couple differences in our dash frames already. Mine is solid on the top while Rani's looks to be relief cut for some reason!! Anybody know why they would do such a thing??
the reliefs in the top started in 68 and were an effort to soften the dash in a collision so were the lower dash pads in 68. the reliefs were designed to cave in easier should the dash be struck by a body during a collision......first generation crumple zones and a really cave man approach to safety but 68 was a major year that federal laws changed towards auto safety.....the popular side markers started in 68 bcoz that was the first year federal safety laws specified that the car must be seen from its profile at night either by light or reflector.
Also the 67 style spring loaded glove box door was phased out for 68 in favor of a latch and button style and the idea was to minimize the chance of the glove box door opening in a collision and lacerating the occupant.
68 was also the first year that the woodgrain console replaced the 67- chrome one and lots of cabin chrome was eliminated to comply with Federal "anti Glare" laws.
very interesting historical notes on all this. thanks to Ralph Nader and Federal Laws concerning Safety and pollution.