I am looking for a restoration project and saw several threads on this board about the front fenders on a 1970 being different than the 1971 and 1972 models. I restored two 442's back in the early 90's and never heard of this. Is the difference that noticeable?

This is only my second post - so please still consider me a newbie

 

If you know what to look for it is. The place where the hood fits down on the 1970 is flat and smooth. In 1971 they put bumps to help it crumple up in case of and accident. There have been reports of 1971 cars with the non-bump fenders, but there shouldn't be 1970 cars with the bump fenders. Here's a couple pictures, let me know if they're clear enough for you to see what I'm describing. Also, I have no experience with it but I've read that the inner fender wells bolt up different between the 1970 and 71-72. John

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2blu442

Thanks for the pictures. I have owned several 70' 442 and cutlasses and never new there was a difference. What kind of olds are you driving?

 

Hi John
Right now my daily driver is a 1967 Olds Cutlass 4 door. It is the proverbial little old ladies car with 57,000 miles on it. I purchased it about three years ago at 47,000 miles. But I've got a long list of project cars from 1964-71, Cutlass and 442's that I've been collecting parts for. I used to list them under my name but the list has gotten very long. Since most of them don't run and all need full restoration I didn't want to sound like a rich guy with a dozen really nice cars.

I'm thinking you created a car wanted post already. If not, what are you looking for? Do you want something that's a basket case, driver, or mostly done? My part of the country is kind to old cars. We don't salt the roads, the nearest melting pot is 300 miles away and the climate is pretty dry. I can keep my eyes open for you if you'd consider something from Southern Oregon. John

 

2blu442,

Location isn't as important as finding the right car. I am looking for a 1970 442, 442 convertible, W30, or W31 to restore. I would prefer something that runs and drives and has decent metal. The ideal car would have bucket seats, floor shift (automatic), and no AC, but that's not a deal breaker.

If you come across anything that fits this description please let me know.

Thanks again for all your help.
JD