Being that your drum is a 1969 drum, it's very possible that you have an original early P-85. I also have a 1969 Supra (Jan. 7th) and it has a P-83. What is the date of your drum?

The multiple holes thing is an earlier idea that was used in the application of lacing snare wires. Why they did it on a die-cast P-85 I'll never know but that's the way it was. I think they discontinued the use of that style sometime in the 70s.

Where can you get a replacement? Well, I think I read that the hole patterns for the P-83, P-85 and the new "Millenium" throwoff (P-86) are all interchangeable, so, if you are in a hurry, then you can probably get a new P-86 and then watch Ebay until you can find a proper replacement for your P-85.

Be thankful that you have some "extra" holes to lace the cord. If it had been a newer one, you'd be in a worse pickle.

The good news is that P-85s are fairly common and still inexpensive. To find the exact right version might take a little time to find, but it shouldn't be a problem at all to find just any P-85.

:2Cents:

Thanks, O-Lugs. Regarding the date stamp, was it put in any particular place in the shell ? I've had a look through the clear head, I haven't taken it off, but can't see a date.

Thanks again, looks like I might be able to source a "holy" P-85 in the US via the Bay.