1968 Convertible firewall reinforcment rods?

[Bob Walton]

Should a 1968 DeVille Convertible have the rods that go from the center of the firewall to the top of the fender wells? I have seen them both with and w/o. It seems that coupes and sedans usually have them, but what about convertibles?

[TedSled66]

My '66 'vert HAD them at one time before I purchased it in 1992. I dont see a problem without them. In fact, the extra ropom to work in the engine compartmant is nice.
Are you planning to take this car off-roading? If not, you will be fine.

TedSled

[Andrew Wall CLC#10638]

I have 2 68 convertibles, and neither has the struts from firewall to fender.
Andrew

[12138]

It's my understanding that none of the convertibles in this vintage had these struts because they used a heavier frame than the other models, and didn't need the extra bracing. However, a number of cars were crunched in the front over the years, and if the replacement front clip came off of a sedan or hardtop, there could be rods present.

[Jim Jordan]

I have had several 1970 Cadillacs.  All of the closed cars had the rods and none of the convertibles did.

[JOE 12138]

I was requested to edit an old posting, where I identified myself as 12138. That's my Cadillac and LaSalle club number. I thought that would be good, but I guess I have to give a name also. I couldn't figure out how to edit or make changes on a previosly posted comment, so this is the best I can do.   HELLO!!!!   My name is JOE!!!!!        Howdy!!!!!

[Walter Youshock]

It is my understanding that SOME convertibles may have come with the cowl bracings.  Most, however, didn't.  If you see a car with them, they may have been added later on.  Both the frames and cowls on convertibles were reinforced, so the braces were not considered necessary.  Coupes and sedans had frames made of a lower gauge than the convertibles due to he solid tops welded to the quarters, so the bracing may have been an overkill on these cars.  After the factory test drive, a shaky car might have had them put on.

As time went on and the cars had some wear, owners may have added them for additional rigidity.

An old factory man could really shed some light on this!  Prior to the mid-60's, there were NO additional braces on any of the cars.  Were the "X" frames really that solid?  I know my '57 Coupe de Ville is as solid as a rock.

[Bob Hoffmann CLC#96]

One reason a conv. may have had the rods was the option of rear air shocks. That's where the pump was mounted. That idea may carry through to 1970.  Bob