People dont like to hear this... but the truth is that alot of GM factory replacement panels designated for parts-only sales and not asembly line (as well as Ford, Dodge, etc..) were "seconds" and didnt make the cut for line installation, due to inconsistancies and flaws. It's possible to get expensive NOS panels and have to modify them to fit because of these reasons. Having said that, the metal gauge would be correct, and would probably have undergone the same tratement ( or not) for corrosion that the rest of the body had seen when assembled. If you're interested in the spirit of having all-original parts, then it's important to try to find NOS and make them work, or perhaps get very lucky and have better fitment than aftermarket.
One thing I do like about modern replacement parts as opposed to NOS is the EDP coatings available on most. AMD has the best (IMHO) and others fall in behind, but the coating is an excellent barrier for moisture, and agruably stands a better chance of not rusting as fast as the original.
perhaps a trade-off for NOS? maybe even a reason for NOT going NOS.
KT
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