I want to replace the grill in my 73 with something else. I was looking at the 70 grill from BEA Parts, but I've been told that the 70 grill won't work because the valance on the 70 is different.
So, will the 71 grill work in a 73? I know the wiring will be a little different, but that's ok.
If it will fit, does anyone make a high quality repro, because I don't want to deprive someone that really needs a 71 grill?
Whatever grille you decide to use (70 or 71) will involve a lot of work to the entire front end of your Cuda. The main body is pretty much identicle for all 5 years.
If you go with a 70 grille, you will have to change the headlight buckets in the front of the fenders, the upper and lower valance, the grille, the bumper, maybe wiring for the turn signals. Don't know if they're long enough.
If you go with the 71 grille, there will be a lot more expense and modifications involved. The front fenders will have to be converted to accept the headlight bucket brackets and if you prefer, stamped for gills. You will need to purchase 71 Cuda headlight mounting bracket bucket assemblies, gills assemblies, lower valance, turn signal assemblies. All of those items available from Mike Ross at
www.beaparts.com You will also need to change or modify the wiring harness for the 4 headlight system, the grille and all of the trimmings, the bumper. The upper valance is the same for 71-74.
Personally I like all of the Cuda grilles and would not go through this much work. If you want a 70 or 71, trade yours or sell it and buy one.
Dave