Rear Bumper Filler Question

[Daveh]

Hi Guys,

I was wondering if anyone had any pictures of the rear filler panel that is in between the body and the rear bumper? I'm trying to figure out if my 71 Challenger convertible needs it or not.  I couldn't find it in my Body Service Manual.  Close up pics would be awesome.  Thanks

Dave

[Cuda Cody]

It's the filler piece that screws just below the taillights.  It visually fills the area between the bumper and the car.

[anlauto]

There is no filler piece on a 71 Challenger, it's part of the tail light surround trim

[303 Mopar]

Related question:  What is the rule on painting the filler black vs. body color?  Is it strictly dependent on chrome vs. elastomeric bumpers?  Is it by year/model or was there an option?   

[anlauto]

I'm guessing the only time that panel is anything but body colour would be on a T/A because of the blacked out tail panel ?

[Daveh]

Thanks I guess that's why I couldn't see in in the 71 Body Service Manual.  Because there wasn't one.   One less thing I have to buy.   

[Daveh]

One more question.  Can I install the bumper now and the tail panel later?  Or does the tail panel have to go on first? 

[anlauto]

Tail panel first in my opinion, but I've never tried the other way...