Generation Specific => Second Generation 1970-1981 => Topic started by: Bottom Feeder on April 12, 2021, 03:52:22 PM

Title: Confused on front clip 1970 sheet metal
Post by: Bottom Feeder on April 12, 2021, 03:52:22 PM
Need help.  I have a 1970 Formula, non ram air car.  Original motor gone, still have numbers Turbo trans and 12 bolt.  I want to do a T/A clone.  I'm confused on the front clip/nose pieces.  I'm looking to build this car to "appear" as a 1970-73 T/A.  I understand real 70 stuff is expensive.  What's the cheapest way to make this happen.  I read the early fenders have tabs to mount valance?  I need two T/A fenders, T/A hood, snorkel scoop, front nose.  I think 77-81 fenders will work but I have to weld the tabs on?  I know there is a fiberglass nose out there.  I run across 77-81 metal a good bit, but is this the way to go? Thanks 
Title: Re: Confused on front clip 1970 sheet metal
Post by: nas t eh on April 12, 2021, 05:31:52 PM
You need a 70-76 T/A hood and hood scoop, 70-81 T/A fenders will work, but there are small reasons why getting pre 78 would help and if possible 70-73 fenders even more as then you get the front flare holes in the right spot(Pre 78) and the valence brackets 70-73, 70-72 fenders have the right under the hood look without the brace mount. You need the steel valence(70-72) and a 70 - 72 nose with grills(70-71 are the same, 72 has the hexagon pattern) and mounting hardware or a 73 nose complete with grills and mounting hardware.
Title: Re: Confused on front clip 1970 sheet metal
Post by: firebirdparts on April 12, 2021, 07:43:37 PM
The 73 styling looks the same as the 70-72 but it's pretty incompatible.  Stick with one or the other.

I think if you have a valance and you have the car assembled with fenders on it, you'll easily see what sort of item you want on there to bolt the valence to.  It's a pretty simple little tab.
Title: Re: Confused on front clip 1970 sheet metal
Post by: Bottom Feeder on April 13, 2021, 04:42:55 AM
Thanks guys!!!
Title: Re: Confused on front clip 1970 sheet metal
Post by: Wallington on April 13, 2021, 07:49:36 PM
BF, sent you a PM.
Title: Re: Confused on front clip 1970 sheet metal
Post by: Bottom Feeder on April 19, 2021, 03:34:38 PM
I see I can buy a new T/A hood/reman for about $500.  I can get a 1975 hood (great shape) for $400 down the street.  Any input? Thanks
Title: Re: Confused on front clip 1970 sheet metal
Post by: roadking77 on April 19, 2021, 05:37:55 PM
If you can get a factory hood, and its in good shape, not too many dents, straight, and rust free I would def. go that route. Some of the aftermarket sheet metal is bad and takes a bit to make it fit. I dont think hoods are that bad overall but I have heard a few complaints in the past. Always go original if you can. Aftermarket if there is no other choice.
Title: Re: Confused on front clip 1970 sheet metal
Post by: Bottom Feeder on April 20, 2021, 04:55:43 AM
Thanks.  That's what I thought.