I don't have any pics of the rear, but I'll shoot some and post. Yes, the lower trim on the fenders looks 69, but the side "swoosh" does not go over the wheel well like the 69. Here I thought I had a gas hog and I've actually got a hybrid!
I'll have to look for damage inside the fenders and engine compartment. Have not noticed any until now though. Everything looked straight inside the engine compartment and under the floorpan/frame area. Both sides have the exact same trim configuration. Would have thought that if a fender bender took out one side, they would not match....The bumper has a ding in it and is slightly tweaked so I thought it was original. Mystery. Do I have a WildSabre or a LeCat?
OK, I think I have it. The 1969 LeSabre had portholes above the beauty line. The 1970 portholes were below. I think you have a 1970 LeSabre front end on your 1969 Wildcat, with the '69 trim added afterwards! Grille matches, too. http://www.dragtimes.com/images/9653-1970-Buick-Le-Sabre.jpg Devon
Yup. And the 70 part length side trim on top of the portholes and 69 bottom fender trim. Too much acid going around in the late 60s'! Nice car you've got there Devon! I like the convert (with the top down), but the roof line and curves on your hardtop really make the car beautiful.
I'll have to follow him around and wait until he bumps something and it falls off! (If I can keep up that is) Going to hit the commute now. Thanks for all of the help! I'll get back on later with rear end photos. Rick
So the VIN is 466679X1----- The motor is a 430 block casting number 383424. Rear end photos to follow.
you may as well get us some interior and engine pics also. you've got our interest now in your mysterious 69-70ish cat, is the right mirror buick or aftermarket?
Congrats, the majority of your car is a 1969 Wildcat Custom 2 door convertible. The casting number for the block is actually 1383424. Devon
No idea about mirror. Passenger side looks aftermarket. Just started to rain so was not able to take any more interior pics.
69 rear and 69ish motor for sure... That Wildcat is a mongrel! >6. composite; formed or composed of heterogeneous elements. < Wow! I like it.
That explains why the air filter I bought at Autozone was too small! I know the last owner traded in the Rochester for a Holley so that's probably when the aircleaner was changed if it's a Chevy part.
Poor baby must've gotten tweaked in the front end pretty badly once upon a time. Aside from getting a '69 front clip, at least finding a pair of Wildcat fenders would have things looking a bit more normal, if you're so inclined. The Wildcat vents and LeSabre portholes is kind of a wierd combo! Devon
Yes. Ultimately when it gets repainted I think all of the side trim is going. The Wildcat trim on the fenders does not quite fit well so unless I can get them to fit flush it all goes. Will have to take a closer look at the portholes to see if they are drilled or just stuck on. Same with the long side trim. At least I don't have to worry about keeping it original! This frees up my conscience for that future 455, 1-2" drop, 18" wheels, paint, etc,... Strangely enough, this whole thread started with the parts it needs! Its been fun and I've learned quite a bit from all of your input! I did drop a note to the guy I purchased it from and ...Low and Behold, he admitted that "yes, it may have been in an accident" but says it was before he owned it of course. Just in case someone has these... Driver's side door armrest Wildcat (or now tri sheild!) wheel centers Rear Seat Seat belts Rear lenses. One more question. Is there a good online source for seat foam padding or should I just look locally here in Phoenix? The upholstery covering is primo but the foam padding under the back seat is dried out and crumbling from the dry hot climate. I'm guessing the fronts probably have the same issue.