1969 Ranger Grille - Coming Soon from Dennis Carpenter

[tylerb43]

Hey guys - I know this has been discussed here before, I searched and couldn't find the thread (got frustrated with the search function).

I'm approaching the final stages of a very extensive and complete restoration of a '69 Ranger, and there are a few parts I'm having a hard time hunting down. One obvious one is the grille, as it is not reproduced (Original tooling was destroyed in a fire - everyone knows that story)

So I noticed part # C9TZ-8200-A on DC's website a couple months ago. I thought - what?! That's THE grille! So I've been in communication with the development guys at DC, and confirmed they are in fact working feverishly on developing the dies to produce this piece.

Many of you may have noticed the ad in this month's Classic Trucks magazine with a picture of the grille tooling and a big "Coming Soon!"

Unfortunately we'll have to wait a little longer, as current schedule shows availability in the 4th quarter of 2014. Pricing has not been released, but should be inline, or only slightly above the grilles they produce for a '66 or '70. (my guess is around $600-$650, - just my guess)

Anyway, just thought I'd share what I know. I'm pretty excited obviously, and I'll be the first in line. In the meantime, I'll probably have to install one of my "driver" grilles, just to get some roads tests in before October. Cheers! -Tyler

[chicof100]

There way behind schedule at this time. I've had numerous conversations with D.C.
The grille is indeed the 68-69 grille, The part number they are using is C9TZ-8200-A This would mean 69 Ranger
However, from my understanding this will not be the Ranger grille with the emblem. They may or may not be painted. (The Red Stripe)
They do not nor are they going to make Ranger headlight bezels.
They're current set back has to do with polishing and anodizing. The anodizing of today from China will flake off real soon. (cutting corners)
They may fit properly or they might require you to make adjustments to your body, thus throwing off your body lines.
At best your getting an 68069 Custom Cab grille. For the Ranger grille your going to have to drill your own holes. Buy your emblem and buy TRUE Ranger headlight bezels.
Now lets just add a little here on the China parts. Grille Shell $650.00 ???
Headlight doors $85.00 each x2 Custom Cab only. Not reproducing Ranger Bezels.
Ranger Emblem $85.00
Total $905.00
Now factor in all the other parts, headlight buckets, hardware and shipping.
And you have a lot of money in China crap to put on your American Truck.

[hazelnut]

Looking forward to seeing your truck with the new grille tyler. I was at the carpenter shop yesterday and didn't even think to ask how the new grilles were coming along. I bought a new ranger plastic insert for mine while I was there.

[Mancar1]

Sounds great that the new grills will be available.
Keep on Trucking

[tylerb43]

Thank you Hazelnut and Mancar for your positive comments! Just trying to share something I thought others may be interested in.