Buick gurus.... I found this post: http://forums.aaca.org/topic/33789-difference-between-6768-wildcat-le-sabre/ This post states that the Electra and Wildcats of these two years (67 & 68) had identical frames? I'm looking for someone that really knows the definitive answer. I don't have the luxury of measuring them or some such conformation -- I'm counting on what the "the book" says. If someone knows definitively -- this would help me tremendously.
This Post offers similar suggestions that they are the same? http://www.v8buick.com/showthread.php?297359-1967-or-1968-Lesabre-Wildcat
Yes the '67 and '68 Electra and Wildcat are built on the same 126" wheelbase chassis. Every Buick book that I've ever referenced regarding these years/models consistently says the same. I looked in the '68 chassis and body parts book and it gives part numbers for the frames as follows: all are group 7.003. 1968 6000 (Wildcat) all except 6667 (convertible) part #1384576. The convertible part # is 1384577. 1968 8000 (Electra) all except convertible part#1384578. Convertible part# 1384579. I believe the main difference in the convertible frames was extra reinforcement to counteract any body flex. As you can see, the part numbers only vary by one digit, so they must be very similar. Just guessing here, but perhaps there had to be a specific numerical designation for each series, so when the frames moved down the assembly line it was clear which model was to built on that frame.
Thank you VERY MUCH for the effort! I'm sure you are correct that the convertibles are stronger variants. I have heard the same about the frames being the same but since I have to live with my choice -- I'm looking for as much affirmation as possible. in my case I have a Wildcat Convertible 6667 (convertible) part #1384576-- looking at acquiring a 1968 8000 (Electra)Convertible part# 1384579. I'm guessing since the part numbers are different there must be some difference (it could certainly be trivial -- like the length of two bolts -- or some extra hole that is drilled for wiring) but most manufacturing processes don't duplicate the same item under two part numbers. I'm hoping someone has personal experience???
Re: 1967 & 1968 Wildcat & Electra frames -- are they the same - it seems not Since these posts are saved/searchable, I thought I would post my latest findings. According to Hollander Interchange the 68 Wildcat Convertible frame has no interchange. This backs up the separate part number data that wildcatsrule was gracious enough to post, as compared to the Electra 225 Convertible. Unfortunately, I have no way of knowing if the delta between the two frames is major or some minor tweak? Maybe we have a restoration guru on the board that has the answer in their head... TBD
About the only real differences between the Electra and the Wildcat is the front suspension. Some used a Bendix set up and some used a Saginaw. Sway arms would be different as Wildcat was engineer for performance and Electra for comfort. Depends where they were built. Other than that, I would think a 67 and a 68 should interchange, probably with minor modifications. Any way you look at it, there will probably a lot of test-fittings and re-alignments before the body will be fully set down. Electra may have had larger rails in the back, I don't know; the geometry between my 66 and 67 is subtle; the only reason they don't interchange is because one's a Nailhead motor in one and the other is a BBB. But they sit on exactly the same wheelbase, and will fit in each other's ruts. None of my parts books offer up a clue.
Thanks 66electrafied -- I appreciate all the great help from members! Right now I'm considering a 68 electra frame (conv to conv) for my 68 wildcat -- so same motor (actually the the 430 was released in 67 so I think it would be the same that year too). I believe your 66 was the last nailhead... Your points about suspension are very interesting.
Yes, but I don't believe it has ANYTHING to do with the frame. I know a guy that had a '67 Riv. with a bad engine & installed a "Nail".
IMHO they will be the same enough to put your Wildcat back together. I was looking at the 65 frames for convertibles and coupes, 2 part numbers and the only difference I could find was the front horns had some holes for the radiator cross bars. You could be the expert :
Re: 1967 & 1968 Wildcat & Electra frames -- are they the same - it seems not All -- special thanks to Tom T from CT for his help on this one! Tom dug into his 68 Chassis book and found that in most regards these frames are similar BUT from the axle back the Electra is longer and has some different body mounting points than the Wildcat. Many frame measurement points are the same but not all... I'm guessing this is a reflection of the Electra's additional body length from the rear axle to the bumper. (Hard to imagine these babies are longer than my Wildcat....). I appreciate finding out the full details so I can make a smart decision. Thanks to everyone that replied --- I hope this helps the next guy too.
Ooh, did not see that coming. Good job dogging this one til getting the right stuff. Thanks Tom for your effort! TN
Probably- I was talking with Carmen the other day and he mentioned this. Joe has not been here on V8Buick but he is still around the Buffalo area. I was pleased to hear it, as he was a great contributor to this site way back when.
Yes, it was Joe. Like Ted said he WAS a great contributor. Too bad some things happened the way they did.
