73 Riveria GS

Discussion in 'A boatload of fun' started by mjs-13, Mar 9, 2005.

  1. 73Riviera

    73Riviera Well-Known Member

    On a 73 Riv, "Stage1" (yes, has vin W); How can I tell if it is the original engine?
    and trans?
    Trans should have the vin # on it too, right?

    Chrome egine pieces;
    Should the valve covers be chrome this year? or only the air cleaner top?

    and what about carb#?
    and distributor #?
    Are they the same as regular (vin U)? or different?
    what else should I look for?

    Thanks!
     
  2. Bad Boattail

    Bad Boattail Guest

    Old thread :boring:

    Don't bother if the topic starter can't get the Riviera name right.......
     
  3. Boattail73

    Boattail73 Well-Known Member

    Look for XA or in my case XFA (between exhaust# 5 and 7) on your engine block, if you have a Stage1 Riv with the "W" vin#. For it to be original look for the serial# in the block stamped near the timing cover on the right.
    Yes Tranny should be a BT and also carry the serial# its on the drivers side of the tranny just above the oilpan.
    My Stage1 Riv actually has the Stage1 7043242 carb, never seen one for sale on Ebay.
    Too bad the distributor had been replaced once so dont know if that could be Stage1.
     
  4. garyd

    garyd Well-Known Member

    you could cut the roof off and make it into a convert
     
  5. Camilla

    Camilla Well-Known Member

    Or make it a Targa Top or T-top car. Still very 70s, y'know...
     
  6. Junkman

    Junkman Well-Known Member

    Yes,U is for standard 455 and W is for Stage1 in '74. The '74 Stage1 also was standard with High Energy Ignition while optional on other 455's. I have a triple black '74 Riviera W code Stage1 option,but no GS option on it. It is a parts car-severe rust in the 1/4's.
     

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