Grill Molding Install - 1968 Shelby

[JWH]

Hello. I have purchased new clips and fasteners to install the front molding on my '68 Shelby. A couple of questions please- in the first picture I have installed one new clip into the molding with the spring on top and one with the spring on the bottom. It is a bit hard to see in the picture but the orientation of the spring will position the post next to the bottom edge of the molding or next to the top edge of the molding. Which direction of install will make the molding fit the best?
       In the second picture is a side-by-side of my old clip and the new clip. Note that the post on the new clip is larger diameter than the post on the old clip. I will need to drill out the current holes in the fiberglass just a little bit to insert the larger new clips. I thought I would ask if I have the correct clips before enlarging the holes? Thanks for any guidance and tips getting the molding installed.
Jeff

[Chris Thauberger]

I don't think you have the correct clips. I believe they should be push in not threaded. You also need a barrel nut in the fibreglass to hold them in place.

I'll look for pictures after supper.

[Coralsnake]

Chris is correct, you need a barrel nut and a non threaded push in fastener. The threaded fasteners were used on some occasions, but the push in style is far more common

[Chris Thauberger]

Exploded view calls for S8MS-14296A and retainer(barrel nut)

[Chris Thauberger]

I don't recall the exact size but here is the AMK listing for barrel nuts. I believe you are looking for type 1.

[JWH]

I am glad I asked before drilling - thanks very much for your advice on how the molding should be attached. I bought these clips from very knowledgeable parts supplier and surprised to not get the correct parts.
      I found this AMK kit offered through CJ Pony Parts, does this look like what I need to order?     
     

AMK Kit F-870 ---- AMK Products Grille Molding Hardware Kit for 1968 Shelbys.

This Grille Molding Hardware Kit from AMK Products includes 52 total pieces of original style, factory correct retainers and sleeve nuts that are required to properly fasten all of the original grille moldings to the front of your 1968 Shelby.

Now you can take the guess work out of installing your 1968 Shelby's new grille moldings with this Grille Molding Hardware Kit from AMK Products. This is the most accurate and complete kit available for your 1968 Shelby.

[Chris Thauberger]

Yes that look to be the correct hardware

[TLea]

Threaded fasteners only used on letter panel and not all cars got them

[68blk500c]

I've always regarded the threaded as replacements; never originals.  So, you surprised me with your answer, Tim.

[TLea]

Seen them on a few original cars with original paint.

[68blk500c]

I've had both service part #s (short and long) NOS, and none have been threaded.

[Flade]

Exploded view calls for S8MS-14296A and retainer(barrel nut)

In the pic it shows two different retainers used.  Part AF and Part AP.  What is the difference?  Does the AMK kit include both?  Has anyone used the Pony Enterprises retainer kit?  It's a bit less expensive than the AMK kit.  $50 vs $70 which I don't really care about.  But if one fits better or is more correct I'll buy the better one.

[Coralsnake]

Ive seen a couple different original clips. Generally speaking I don't think the factory cared which ones were used.

There are some clips with a straight shaft and I've seen a few that were threaded (less common)

Original clips didn't use the rubber donuts, were painted green and have longer shafts than the reproductions I have seen

[68blk500c]

The original grill surround trim was attached using two different length trim clip studs--meaning two different part numbers.  Branda has sold the shorter version, in the past, but I haven't seen the longer version reproduced.
These clips are not shown in the image that Chris provided.

I will try to post a photo later today of original clips, with part numbers.  The longer ones are supposed to be installed in the headlight buckets where it is harder to reach them to push them bac out, if needed.

[68blk500c]

Factory clips pictured, with S8MS #s. 18 short ones, plus 8 longer ones.
Factory didn't use the donut cushions, (previously mentioned) which are visible if you do use them.

I have seen original cars without using barrel nuts; studs were pressed directly into fiberglass holes.