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looking at a '74, need advice

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Old Oct 12, 2025 | 02:58 PM
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Default looking at a '74, need advice

As posted, looking at a '74 big block. Aside from the birdcage and normal every car items, anything I should be educated about regarding a '74? I know the rear clip is a one year only deal.

Anything particular to this year, hard to get parts, things to be wary of, etc.?

TIA
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Old Oct 13, 2025 | 08:48 AM
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Morning, I am assuming by rear clip you are referring to the 2 piece rear bumper cover. You can purchase replacement covers made out of fiberglass in a few different styles. Check out aci for pics. The shock absorbing system for the rear bumper is a one year only, in 75 they changed the frame to accommodate actual shock absorbers.
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Old Oct 19, 2025 | 01:39 PM
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There are potentially a few hidden differences. The rear spring should be the bigger 9 leaf spring and heavier mounting bolts. The front coil springs are stiffer and the sway bar is thicker. The radiator is a 4 core instead of 3 core in small blocks. The radiator shroud is different and engine mounting brackets are different. Heater core plumbing is routed differently to clear the BB, even though the boxes are the same. BB and SB A/C cars have fake astro ventilation, 7 blade fans instead of 5.
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Old Oct 19, 2025 | 05:41 PM
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Do youu plan on keeping it 💯 % 1974? ( or returning it to '74 correct?) Otherwise, several years of C3 parts fit a '74. Its always been one of my favorite, but I have a '75. Buy the best one you can afford. This actually applies to any classic.
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Old Oct 21, 2025 | 04:11 PM
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Thanks guys. This was a BaT auction. Went for $5k more than I was willing to bid.
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Old Oct 22, 2025 | 05:54 AM
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Hope you got the information you needed.
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Old Oct 22, 2025 | 06:35 PM
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I did! Appreciate the input. Wasn't as drastic as I thought things might be and learned a few things along the way!
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