Cuda rear bumper 1972 versus 1973

[redo1973]

I am restoring a 1973 Barracuda.  I have settled on using the 1972 bumper to bring it closer to the body.  The 1973 has a heavy steel frame the bumpers to.  Were these also used for 1972 or was this part of the Nader bumper system (5 mph)?

[anlauto]

Not used in 1972, started in 1973. You'll need 70-72 brackets to get it closer into the body

[burdar]

I assume you're also doing away with the bumper guards? If not, the bumper guards will most likely not fit the contour of the 72 bumper. If the bumper guards are not being used, then just purchase the 72 brackets and your good to go.

Also be aware that 73-74 used a rubber filler strip between the bumper and the body. You want to remove this filler when pushing the bumpers in. Some people don't do this and it looks out of place.

[redo1973]

Thanks.  I'm styling the bumpers, front and back, like pre-1973 with the chrome bumperettes and fillers.  We were having issues aligning the bumper to the tail panel and the frame was definitely an issue.  Also, the passenger side did not fit nicely to the quarter so it appears that the tail panel was off slightly and we'll modify the driver side to match the gaps and keep a good contour across the back. The rubber inserts were removed.  However, is there typically a large gap between the bumper ends and the quarter; like two inches or so?  Also, are the filler pieces for the ends of the front bumpers? Sorry no pictures at this point.