Chevy Nova Body differences 68-72 to 73/74

Chevy Nova Body Differences between 1968-1972 Nova and 1973 1974 Nova. Info on converting to older style bumper and grille. Difference on front and back bumpers and grille. I'm working on converting this car to 1972 Nova front and rear. Subscribe to channel for more Chevy Nova info. Please comment if you have questions.

[@joeclark7082]

my first car was a 74 nova. bought it for 200$ in 1994 at the age of 15 and it was my only car until 2001 when it became my toy. Still have it

[@Shop209]

My first was a 71. My older sisters boyfriend had a 74.

[@beefcattle1543]

My first was a 73 SS. MY STEPDAD HELD IT TO THE FLOOR A BLEW THE ENGINE BCS IT WAS IN THE YARD AND WOULDNT MOVE BCS IT LEAKED TRANS FLUID. WAS A GD TRANS. THERE WAS PIECES OF THE CAMSHAFT ON THE INNER FENDER WELL WHEN I OPENED THE HOOD THE NEXT DAY. I WAS 15 AT THE TIME. PAID $97.00 MY OWN MNY. SO I BUILT A 40 OVER 350 WITH HIGH RISE PISTONS. 010 BLOCK. CAR WAS SO FAST I HIT A TREE THE THIRD DAY AT 120 MPH. WALKED AWAY. I WAS BREAKING THE ENGINE IN AND THE CAR WENT TO THE LEFT OVER A SLIGHT HILL AND CROSSED THE OTHER LANE. IT HIT A BIG OAK ON A HILL BASICALLY A WALL AND FLIPPED TWICE AND LANDED RT SIDE UP IN THE DITCH. PEOPLE CAME RUNNING OUT OF THEIR HOUSES. IT SNAP THE HARMONIC BALANCER OFF THE ENGINE AND RIPPED THE SUB FRAME FROM THE BODY AND BROKE THE FRAME COMING ACROSS THE FRONT UNDER MOTOR ON DRIVER SIDE. THE WINDOWS EXPLODED ON IMPACT AND I HAD NO SEAT BELT ON. I HELD THE STEERING WHEEL AS TIGHT AS I COULD AND TRIED TO AVOID THE TREE BUT HIT IT HEAD ON. THE STEERING WHEEL AND Column BROKE FROM THE DASH ON IMPACT. WHAT A RIDE THAT WAS. THE CAR WAS CHEVY ORANGE WITH STRIPES ON THE SIDE. WISH I still had it.

[@jasonsilver7334]

finally a nova guy i love it ,

[@Shop209]

Thank you!!

[@dominicpetruzzelli3134]

I have a 1974 Nova that was converted to look like an earlier model. Whoever did the job on that car was a master body man. I never realized there was that much work in the rear till I watched your videos, which I love watching great job on them.

[@Shop209]

Thank you!!

[@tmack9584]

Hey, I’m looking for a set of trunk hinges the whole piece that goes down to the wheel tubs off the package tray. Are they the same for all the years trying to figure out what will interchange with a 70 nova

[@novadiecastman5251]

Finally a nova guy , my 73 was my first car, got it when I was 16 , now I'm 50 , been to lots of car shows and nova Nationals .. I also have a 74 Spirit of America L74 ,and currently building a 77 which is getting ready for paint and yes it has been a father& sons build .. my sons and I have done all the work so far it's a true roller stroker 383 . I'm a huge nova nut !!!!

[@Shop209]

Cool man! My first was a 71. My 73 is my favorite. I love all years though. Thanks for checking out my channel.

[@daniellaubsch1605]

I used to own a stock '74 Nova Spirit of America hatchback back in 1992. Wish I still had it now. Great vehicle to take 2 a car show or cruisein. Many might recall somebody who probably owned 1 or have never seen 1 in the SOA or SS option.

[@novadiecastman5251]

@@daniellaubsch1605 awesome 👍

[@richardpeetrinpeetrin9817]

Yeah, I owned a '73 Nova SS 350 for ten years....I think the '73 Nova SS 350 with all the toys, clean in every capacity is the way to go. They should sell fairly good. When they are done RIGHT, they are the sharpest Nova on the road!! '73 all the way ....

[@drutillman9108]

rookie mechanic , starting my first 75 custom hatch rebuild. this channel is amazing every bit helps

[@Shop209]

Awesome. I’m going to do some good videos for beginners soon.

[@curtfreeman8632]

Interesting videos sir, and good job. I’ve owned several Novas over the years. My first was a 70 Hugger orange Nova when I was 16 in 1973. Probably had at least 10 others through the years along with several other Chevrolet’s, but Novas are my favorite. Now have another Hugger orange 71 that I don’t plan on selling. Figure the two orange cars make nice book ends to my automotive journey. Looking forward to more of your videos. Thank you very much!

[@Shop209]

Thank you for watching!!

[@cliffordypdanielssr.9269]

i have a 74 hatchback and my my bumpers are cut to fit like a 72 nova. your video is awesome 👌 keep up the great work. also loved the plastic dip video

[@Shop209]

Thanks!!

[@rtalways]

Great job subscribed, im 49 have had my 73ss since i was 18 i bought from my great grandma for $200 im so glad i found your channel my interior is apart but car runs looking forward to your videos.

[@dankronenberg946]

I’ve got a 73 super sport that I bought new still have It needs restored I have most of the parts just haven’t had time to do it

[@richardschultz6522]

I love the Nova I had three of them a 69&70 and a 74 the 69 and 70 or drag cars 69 was a 350 super stocker the 70 was a big block 402 that are ran in stock class now that I'm 70 years old and retired would limited-income I miss working on them I really miss what working on them but I like watching your videos can't wait for the Henry J my uncle had a Henry J back in the 50s always like that car

[@Shop209]

Yeah. This one was my uncles. I’m gonna start in January and have it ready for March show.

[@dmansf49ers71]

68-72 was FAR better in every possible way 💯

[@CharlieLovesAveri]

I like the 72s but I gotta say the bigger bumpers and front end setup on the 73-74 make it look a whole lot meaner

[@Shop209]

I prefer the 73’s also. They look meaner to me too.

[@carlosdelao6552]

I have a 73 nova that I have been "fixing up" for the last 20 yrs. Your videos just might inspire me to actually do it. Im going to subscribe

[@Shop209]

Thank you and good luck!!

[@mikeanderson1316]

awesome! I have both a 1973 nova that I'm converting into an SS but I have a true 1974 SS nova factory 4speed . I am restoring the 74 SS after watching your video I realized that I threw away the 73 rear bumper mounts somebody had already changed out the 74s rear bumper mounts to a 73. i'm not sure whether I should laugh or cry about that 38 bucks apiece.My 73 nova just a nice clean streetcar little hot Rod

[@Shop209]

Cool. Yeah. I had to buy a whole dang car to get the rear 73 custom bumper and brackets for mine. Thanks for watching.

[@trentdawg2832]

I gotta 74 buick apollo that I put a 72 nova front end on.....looks bad ass cause the buick has wrap around tailights...I also pushed in the rear bumper so it doesn't stick out an extra 5" ....with a 1st Gen camaro trunk spoiler. Looks mean.....the shock absorbers In the bumper can be compressed by drilling a hole in them and squeezing them shut!!!......I also put 70 door panels in mine for money savings

[@Shop209]

Yeah. I have drilled the shocks on one of my 74’s. Makes a big difference. Sounds like a cool car. Thanks for watching!!

[@scaleman40]

THANK YOU FOR THE SUPER FAST ANSWER. I LOVE YOUR VIDEOS.

[@Shop209]

No problem. Thanks for watching!

[@zeussingh5111]

I love the quarter windows of the 73 an 74 nova way more I like the tail lights and front end more from the 69 but I would buy a 73 tho

[@Shop209]

I love the 73/74’s. My first was a 71.

[@13612]

I had a 73 hatchback. Wound up selling it for 100 dollars to a scrap yard and it was still a running 6 cyinder. Got sick of the speedometer cable breaking all the time and parked it. Ran fine, but was prone to rust around the rear window....had the body work all done when I first got it and it only lasted about 3 years before the bondo they used started to deteriorate. I bought it originally for 300 bucks and it had a broken leaf spring, rusted fenders, rear window and only 35K miles on it...had somewhere over 110K when I got rid of it in Hampton, Va.

[@Shop209]

Yeah the hatchback lids are terrible about rusting badly. Hard to find in good condition.

[@belagar]

I agree, finally a Nova guy like me, Great video

[@LevansLawnLandscape]

Thanks so much for the info - we are the proud new owners of a 1969 Nova, And we have been scrambling to get as much information as possible. It’s interesting to know the evolution of these cars. Thanks again and we’ll be watching

[@Shop209]

Thanks! I’m definitely no expert but I’ve had a bunch of these cars and I try to learn all I can. I’ll have some more videos up in next few days.

[@1974Nova1974]

I have a 74. Another difference I've noticed between 73/74 is that all the 73's I've seen have a rubber strip on the bumpers running horizontally, where as the 74's do not. Also the 74's have large vertical rubber bumpers on either side of the front license plate. Great video! I never knew the 73 didn't have shock absorbers behind the bumpers.

[@Shop209]

The rubber impact strip on the bumpers was also on some 74 cars. Custom and some SS cars had them in 73 and 74. 74 cars also have retractable seat belts. Thanks for watching! Please share. Trying to build up subscribers. New video this week. Lowering the rear with new leaf springs.

[@RowdyCStuff]

@@Shop209 Can someone convert the 73 nova belts with 74 retractable belts without modifications?

[@Shop209]

@@RowdyCStuff the 74 belts are different at top and will not bolt up. Easier to buy aftermarket belts.

[@brentfellers9632]

73 had the older optional shoulder harness, where the 74 had an integrated shoulder/lap seat belts

[@Shop209]

My 73 had the two belt non retractable shoulder harness.

[@brentfellers9632]

@@Shop209 but it detaches from the lap belt, and stores in the trim above the door no?

[@Shop209]

Yes. Mine had a lap belt with an extra slot for the shoulder belt to hook. You could just run lap belt and leave shoulder clipped to headliner trim.

[@brentfellers9632]

@@Shop209 you got it Pontiac!

[@brentfellers9632]

@@Shop209 oh yah, 73 and 74 small blocks had different fuel pumps and lines on the sub frame as well..

[@reborn74nova]

Very Good video. I love the 74 and unfortunately because there is less aftermarket support for the 73 and 74's, this is why they are the black sheep of the 3rd gens. This is also why they are more popular. Easier to build one as opposed to a 73/74 because if you need replacement parts, you can find them reproduced.

[@Shop209]

Yeah. My 73 is my favorite. They’re slowing getting more reproduction parts available but I wish they had more of the interior pieces.

[@kennyjcollins6405]

Like your videos, brotha. They are informative - thank you

[@Shop209]

Thank you!! And thanks for watching.

[@gregbenwell6173]

You can't "convert" a 1973/74 to anything older though!! The main difference in those two years (73-74) is that the body line on the side of the car IS DIFFERENT and the rear "quarter window" is longer on a 1973 and 1974 also!! Still further the rear tail lights on a 1968 to 1972 are a single unit type light while the 1973 and 1974 have a dual tail light set up!! Side marker lights in the quarter panels are different too as the 1968 to 1972 models have a slightly smaller side marker light!!! And if you really want to "freak out" the 1973 and 1974 Oldsmobile Omega doesn't have a side marker light hole IN THE BODY at all. The side marker light on the Oldsmobile is actually part of the rear valance panel and is up near the tail light housings!!!! Also speaking of the 1968 to 1972 quarter window, that window is more of a "triangle" than it is in 1973 and 1974 which is almost a square window in THAT body style!!!!

[@georgesadler7830]

Thank you for the video.

[@callmenortnortin467]

68 to 72 Novas used a rear steer front subframe.in 73 they went to a front steer subframe. Meaning,,the earlier ones ,68 to 72 had the steering box behind the front crossmember,,front steers had the steering box forward of the front crossmember

[@Shop209]

No sir. The subframe is the same. All of the 68-74 are rear steer. Front steer started in the nova in 1975. The 67-69 Camaro had rear steer and the 70-81 Camaro had front steer. Thanks for watching.

[@callmenortnortin467]

Appreciate the correction , thank you

[@jeffrey4547]

i love my 73 ss nova still has the factory paint but it getting a little ruff everything is factory but the engine and trans . i race it in a full body pump gas only drags the paint and vinyl top is getting burnt from all the rubber but y have it if u don't use it even has the gauge set on the floor same with the shirter for the auto . so it is kinda rare most did not have gauges on the floor i have 1,100 in the car 396 with tunnel ram with a pro built 400 turbo with inkee wheels on it . i been driving it for about 20 years now but i get rigs cheap if not for free just got a 3 79 z28's one is a z28 rs t top the others are just z28 with hard tops but one has new interior in it plan is to build the t top but got all for free with a stroked 454 heavy duty 400 turbo engine has 38,000 miles on it runs perfect paper say it is a 450 hp at 485 torque steel crank heavy rods the trans has the big pump and heavy clutch plates plus a extra front clip that is mint not one ding in it the other hard top has all new breaks they replaced every thing on the breaks . plus have electric trunk power windows power locks full instruments on the dash the t top has the full spoiler kit from factory . have a 4 speed set up too with the fly wheel and clutch all new in the box borg warren trans . but have 2 rigs in front of it that i am building .68 chevy pu and a 70 ford high boy dana 60/80 4 speed 390 engine both are rust free . have lots of parts like to trade looking for a model t pu lots of good trading rigs for projects .

[@mikewillett5076]

Another '68 only part is the front window regulators. (Not sure if rear is different or the same.) Ordered a used one and didn't fit my '71. Oddly the window crank and regulator mounting holes were about a 1/2 inch off.

[@DirtySouthRider]

What are all the parts needed to change the quarter panel windows of a 1974 to a 1968-1972 style?. I hate the big side window of my 74 Nova and do not have the money to buy a good condition Pre 1974. I love the triangle shape look much better. It is crazy how a difference in a few years can change the price of a car because of different bumpers and windows.

[@Shop209]

I have seen that done. You would need inner structure from a donor car, windows and regulators, quarter panel and window trim. Then a whole bunch of work.

[@DirtySouthRider]

Shop209 yes sir, I believe that but it would be a lot cheaper than buying a 1969-1972 Nova these days. I already have my 74 so I will try to locate a body guy here in Ohio that can do that kind of work.

[@Shop209]

Gotcha. Hopefully you won’t have any trouble finding a donor car or two for the inner structure.

[@EnriqueLopez-hb5jn]

Awesome information, 👍👆☝️👏🏼

[@ALPHAFTUCK]

I sold my '74 at 17 yrs old after I blew the 383 stroker. I'm now 49 and bought it back last week 🙌 I'm in Alberta Canada, where would you recommend gathering my parts from ie body panels? Love your vids!!! GO NOVA'S!!!!

[@Shop209]

Well, I’m not sure how bad it is to get stuff shipped to Canada. I either buy my body panels from summit racing or from AMD. I’m in GA and both of them are so I can go pick them up. Amazon has free shipping on stuff but you’ll pay more sometimes.

[@scottwilkerson78]

@@Shop209 Hey Man i just realized you are near Perry. I live outside of Cuthbert. That's crazy. I have been watching your videos for months, but never realized you were that close to me. lol

[@dyer2cycle]

I've owned 3 Novas..a '66, which I wish I still had, and a '75 and a '77, which I also wish I still had. I'm not sure if the '73-'74 had the same front subframe as the '75-'79's, but the '75-'79's drive and handle very well for a '70's car..the front subframes are very similar to the ones used on the 2nd gen. Camaro/Firebird....

[@rjmzz430]

I own a 72, ....i like 73 and 74 models and think they look tuff without the front bumper on them.....not sure why people on converting them to look like the 68 to 72s but to each their own I guess.

[@Shop209]

I prefer the 73/74 front end. The 73 is perfect and the 74 I prefer tucked because they stick out 2” farther than 73. I did the conversion because I kept seeing people ask how to do it. Thanks for watching.

[@dyer2cycle]

me neither...I know some people do it because the '68-'72 is worth more money, but if you build a FrankenNova that looks similar to a '68-'72 out of a -73-'74, it will still be technically a '73-'74, and registered as such, so will it REALLY be worth more money?..I don't care for automotive mongrels of any kind myself..if you don't like what you have, sell it and buy what you do like...save up if necessary...

[@The1965catalina]

Love your show cool car

[@roberthabel584]

I have a 74 Nova that I want to put bucket seats in. I bought a set of Nova high back seats and in my research it appears that I need to add some brackets to the floor pan which are available but is this my only option?

[@douglascooke1926]

The openings in the front bumper are different between the 73 and 74.

[@Shop209]

Yes sir. There’s a lot I left out. Might do a follow up video.

[@shocktones9704]

Id like to see front end suspension component differences...ball joints, control arms, rod ends etc.

[@rickhgrv]

Love these videos keep it up thank you! my question is when working on a 74 bumper can you strip all the heavy crap off the actual bumper and mount-it to the 73 mounting brackets

[@Shop209]

Yes and no. There’s slight differences so it’s not hard but not just a bolt on. The bumpers are actually a little different.

[@TheHarvick29]

The rectangular holes on both sides of the front license plate on a ‘73 are larger than a ‘74

[@Shop209]

Yes sir. I need to make an updated video with lots more info.

[@jimmycarter9099]

Thanks You

[@DirtySouthRider]

Is there a way to change the quarter windows on a 1974 nova to the 1972 and older Nova's? I like the triangle look better than the square windows.

[@Shop209]

You can but you have to get inner stricter from a 68-72 car. It is a lot of work.

[@guitarcircuit]

Darn. I sold my '74 Nova in '84.

[@jefffoster5920]

chevy novas are cool

[@Shop209]

Yes sir!!

[@justincooper5189]

So getting away from the body side, was 1973 the first year for standard disc brakes on the front? Or was it 74 that was first year for that? My dad had a 72 with drum brakes on all four corners, so I know they didn't come with disc brakes standard, although it was an option. I think it was for the SS nova, and if you paid more for the discs, but it is something I'm curious about. I also heard that the gas tank is bigger on the 73-74 than on the 72. 21 gallon versus 16 gallon. Makes me wonder if the tank can be swapped into an earlier nova since they were a bit more thirsty than the newer ones. That could be a project for you if you want. Build the best of that body style nova. Best brakes, best motor, best looking interior,etc., And maybe raffle it to support your channel.

[@Shop209]

The first year for disc brakes standard on a nova was 1976. The 73/74 tank is larger but the trunk floor is different so that tank won’t fit 68-72. Thanks for watching!

[@ClintonC1991]

That plastidip looks so gooood

[@Shop209]

Thank you!! I’m pretty happy with it.

[@ronnieclayton4344]

My doors are in pretty good shape and would do some trading. I do want a cherry set of 73 / 74 doors and will pay top $ for them. I'm 70 and my back has let me down I think for the last time so I can't do much of the work. Actually I'm looking for some young buck to help me get her back together and running. I'm putting a LS (4.8 with mild cam ported heads, etc) TH350 w Gear Vendor OD, I'm replacing the front sub frame so I'll have Rack and coil overs. I had alot more started and then my back went out. Thanks for any help Ronnie Clayton

[@jasonjacobsen3964]

What about the biggest difference? 1974 came with a hatchback? Unless I missed you saying it? Not too sure if 73 came in a hatchback?

[@Shop209]

Yes 73 also came with a hatchback. I was planning on doing a follow up video with more of the differences. I guess it’s about time. I left a lot out. Thanks for watching!

[@1984AP]

Pretty sure we had a `74 Nova. It was blue, with black interior, auto on column. It had a V-8 but not sure if it was a 307 or 350. It had a single exhaust on right side. I read the `73 did not have the fuel filler under the license plate, whereas the `74 did.

[@Shop209]

The 73 and 74 had fuel cap under license plate. In 1974 the V8 would have been the 350. No other V8 was available.

[@1984AP]

@@Shop209 You're right I read that after I commented. So odd they had 2 350 engines in `74 - one put out around 140hp the other 180hp. The bumpers and emblems are very subtle differences between the `73 and `74.

[@bobbymcc1399]

Isn’t there a contour difference between the 1968-9/ 1970-4 fenders? Right where they meet the door.

[@Shop209]

No. The shape is exactly the same.

[@ivancastillo934]

You wouldn't happen to have a subframe for a 68-72 nova for sale?

[@Shop209]

No sir. Not at moment.

[@jimarnold4062]

Where are you located? Do you have any parts for sale for a 73 nova? Jim

[@Shop209]

I’m in middle GA. I have very few parts for sale. Not many for a 73. I have some 74 bumpers and mounts. That’s about it.

[@devonzinter8176]

What’s the difference between the trunks on the 72 and the 74. I have a 74 nova that I’m trying to restore for my dad but I can’t find a trunk pan for it... only for a 72 and older

[@Shop209]

The 73/74 trunk floor has a hump on passenger side for extra fuel tank capacity. Also the hump under trunk latch is slightly different to accommodate the filler neck being higher. No one makes a replacement trunk floor for the 73/74. You’ll have to fabricate something or use pieces of a 68-72 trunk floor partial patch to make pieces you need.

[@jamessmithboxingtv6303]

I got a 1976 Nova . Any clue on why people are not a big fan of the 75 - 79 Novas ?

[@Shop209]

I like them. Mostly people don’t like them because they were very underpowered when new. They can be made to look great without much effort.

[@ronnieclayton4344]

Hey dude, love your vid's and information I'm working on a 71 and would like to put on the 73 / 74 doors. Do you know of any, I live near Statesboro so it would be a bad road trip.

[@Shop209]

I’ll ask around. How are the doors on your 71? Would you trade them?

[@Da_Crow]

great description , a lot of goo info on the Nova - in your opinion whats better - a 72 or 74 Nova? and also what do you think of 3 on the tree vs a floor set up?

[@Shop209]

Thank you. I personally like the 73/74 body style over the 68-72. With that said a 72 will always be worth more to more people with all things equal to the 74. Just a fact that their are more fans of the 68-72. As far as 3 on tree, floor shifters are always cooler. Lol

[@dyer2cycle]

@@Shop209 I know I must be an oddball, but I really like the '75-'79...especially the '75 because of the grill. I like all the years/body styles, but my favorites are the '66-'67, then the '62-'65, then the '68-'72(prefer the '68 because of the one-year-only things, plus it's the last year that was badged a "Chevy II"), then the '75-'79, then the '73-'74...

[@SladeM.]

You forgot the 73 and 4 hatchbacks.

[@Shop209]

I was gonna do a second part to that video. I guess I need to follow up.

[@cjones32853]

I have, as my latest Nova, a ‘67 four-door. It was factory-perfect until Mother Nature threw a tree at it. There’s not a piece of sheet metal on it that isn’t bent. Where can I find parts and pieces for a ‘66 -‘67 four door?

[@Shop209]

Any part that is the same from 2 dr to 4 dr is available new. As far as the four door specific parts, a parts car or trying to fix what you have if the damage isn’t so bad. Maybe try some of the Facebook groups that are for novas. Lots of guys have parts and cars that might help.

[@rodburesh6969]

if you install a 73 door on 72 will it bolt on or will hinges be welded ing same stop

[@Shop209]

All hinges are welded from mid 1970-up. 68 to mid 70 had bolt on hinges. The hinges were pressed together and bolted to both door and pillar. The welded on hinges are a two piece that you just line up door with pillar and install pins. You can put a 73 on a 72. You Just lose the vent window and the door panel doesn’t interchange.

[@rodburesh6969]

I really like the crash bars in 73 doors heavy door is safer also will install the vent window from my old door and will have to drill holes but I i guess ill wait for your new video on how to drill the three-vent window holes as vent window is a window run channel ! the felt holes from 72 felt do not line up suggestions

[@josedelao5903]

I have a 74 ss and it needs quarter panels but they only make 70-72 full oem type quarte panels will the 70-72 fit a 74? Without modifications?

[@Shop209]

The 70-72 quarters are the same below the body line. Other than on the 73/74 the marker light is farther toward front. You CAN change the whole quart and just trim to fit the quarter window area and modify the twilight panel area.

[@omarmedina7190]

Hi , I want to change my 1974 Nova front to a 68-72 but In Mexico it is difficult to find a donor car so I will have to buy the parts. Could you tell me what parts I need to make the change?🙏🏽 Plis .

[@Shop209]

Yes. I’ll add a list of parts to a video and let you know.

[@raywilliams1375]

Hey man love your videos. I've got a 74 nova and was wondering if some slim chance you might have a set of the rear interior panels you might want to get rid of or if you know where I could get a desent set. Any help would be greatly appreciated

[@Shop209]

Hey. First I know I don’t have a set. Second, is it hatchback or trunk car. The panels are different. Third, try some older junkyards and Facebook groups. Also eBay. I bought a set last year for my 74 and paid $150 for a pair. Got them from a salvage yard in Kentucky. They were advertised on Facebook. Thanks for watching. I really appreciate.

[@raywilliams1375]

@@Shop209 Mine is a trunk car . Ok I'll keep looking and thanks for getting back to me. I appreciate you getting back to me and I'll keep an eye out for them like you said. Another question are you gonna tuck your bumpers in on your car? To me that made alot of different when I did mine. Changed the whole look of the "big bumpers" for the better in my opinion.

[@Shop209]

I won’t tuck the bumper on my 73. I like it how it is. However, if I was doing a 74 I would tuck them. The 74 cars have the shocks and the 73 just have brackets. The 74 bumpers stick out about 2 inches farther than 73. Also, the 73 brackets make it a pain to tuck if you wanted too.

[@Kingkimani]

I have a 73 Nova that I'm restoring. Im looking for a rear seat. What do you suggest are my options for replacing my rear bench if I need a new one? Thank you

[@Shop209]

There are some newer car seats that can be made to fit. I’m doing some research on that now. You can join some nova Facebook groups if you haven’t already. I have seen people offer seats for sale there. I think TMI interiors will be making replacement seats but I. Sure they’ll be expensive. Thanks for watching.

[@rollinthunder7772]

What about a 73 hatchback conversion to a trunk 68 style with the 68 quater panels? I can't find much about it?

[@stanleyhoogland9638]

What is the rear frame rail difference I am converting a 74 to a 71 style

[@Shop209]

Only real difference is the wider frame rails on the last few inches or so for the bumper shocks to mount in.

[@DodgerBluetC]

Hello good sir, I have a 71 Nova that was recently wrecked and for a good price I can find a 73. My question is, would the headliner front pillar post panels fit into the 73 from my 71? I wouldn't try to put the door panels for my 71 into the 73 but all the other small bits of the interior are in good condition. Thank you

[@Shop209]

The headliner trim is different so the A pillar moldings are different. Other than that they’re the same.

[@DodgerBluetC]

@@Shop209 Damn.... Ok then I'll just get looking for a donor 68-72.... Let the waiting begin. Thank you! 🙏🏼

[@jonathansmith875]

I need a set of tail lights for a 74.. any advice on where to find a set? I’d like to have oem..

[@Shop209]

I might have a set. Can’t remember if they’re busted or not.

[@jonathansmith875]

@@Shop209 I’d be interested in them if they are in a shape I could work with ya know what I’m saying. I have a 74 almost road ready don’t have any tail lights at all… thanks!

[@rodburesh6969]

ok, the 73 doors work great now I have two 73 doors now if I install felts for 73 are the rear quarter on my 72 going to accept the felts from the 73 kit thanks Master so i asked about the quarter window ???

[@Shop209]

I THINK the felts on bottom are same length but I’m not sure. The shap is different though.

[@thomasmansfield9282]

Can a 69-72 FRONT Bumper be engineered to fit a 73 without swapping front end

[@Shop209]

Yes. It will bolt right on, but the bumper filler between grill and bumper may need to be modified. It looks a little off to me but some people like it. The 73 subframe has the same holes the 68-72 does.

[@markblackburn8685]

I got a 78 nova and need a trunk panel does the older models fit for replacing the trunk

[@Shop209]

No one makes a trunk pan for those. Only option is to fabricate patches or find a donor car.

[@markblackburn8685]

@@Shop209 I'm thinking about measuring one in a cutlass or something and see how close of a match they are

[@jeremyross5058]

Are 72 b-pillars the same as a b-pillar on a 73-74s

[@Shop209]

No. The 73/74 pillars are different.

[@jhoungxieng7562]

What type of exterior paint did you use on your blue nova ?

[@Shop209]

The matte paint or the shiny paint?

[@alfredjarman3312]

The matte paint color?

[@robertparks3050]

73 and 74 nova rear quarters are a little different because of the larger rear window

[@dangilbert8391]

Awsomechevys

[@danboutin8700]

Do you know the wheelbase of the 68-74 ? Thanks

[@Shop209]

It is around 111 inches. Thanks for watching.

[@zackpalmer6474]

Hey i have a 1974 Ventura i wana convert to 1969 nova will the 1969 nova doors fit on yhe 1974 Ventura

[@CECarp454]

Good day, what pieces do I need to install my front bumper on my 73 Nova. I have had the car since 1981 and in the mid 80s I ran it into a telephone pole. I bought a complete 74 from the recycle yard and put the nose on my 73. But now I want to get it back to the original front end.

[@Shop209]

Ok. So basically the differences are, the bumper brackets, the bumper filler panel, and the bumper itself. Pretty much everything else is the same. If the subframe was changed you’ll need to drill some holes to mount the brackets correctly.

[@CECarp454]

@@Shop209 Thank you. The entire nose is on my Nova is from a 1974 including the Subframe. What about the filler support pieced, are those required to properly assemble the 73 configuration, Parts 337467, 337468 and 337469? I have the brackets from a 73 and the rubber filler, but I do not have the supports. I believe the metal filler from the 74 is too wide for the 73 application so I need to make sure I have the correct pieces to install the 73 filler.

[@Shop209]

Yes. You would need to metal side supports.

[@CECarp454]

Thanks. Those are not an easy part to find.

[@Shop209]

The 73 front has 3 aluminum pieces on top and stapled to the rubber filler. The filler is all one piece. The sides have a steel l shaped support that bolts to fender with the side piece.

[@dnoll]

I had a Nova when I was in high school. I can't remember if it was a 73 or 74. It had a black top over a greyish color. If I email you a photo of the rear end, would you be able to tell me the year & color? I remember it having a bench seat too.

[@saccstrywillow6574]

i probably could

[@dnoll]

@@saccstrywillow6574 Can't find a way to attach photos in this thread.

[@saccstrywillow6574]

@@dnoll wanna email it to me?

[@dnoll]

@@saccstrywillow6574 Yes I can email pics to you but would need an email address. This forum wont allow me to attatch pics.

[@scottolisar456]

I have a question . I have seen numerous different air cleaner housings on a 1972 K SS nova . What is stock ?

[@Shop209]

I will do some research.

[@tmack9584]

How are the trunk hinges the same on a 70 to 74

[@danielamighetti6890]

Is ir truth that 4 door novas and 2 door novas are the same from the windshield to the front bumper ?

[@Shop209]

4 door novas are slightly different above the dash. The a pillars are supposed to be at a different angle. The windshields are definitely different. The four door front windshield is taller. Other than that, from the steering wheel to the front bumper they’re the same. Subframes are same. Rear ends are same. The front seat will work but won’t lean forward.

[@danielamighetti6890]

@@Shop209 Thanks for the quick response man! Really appreciate you taking the time to explain this to me, it’s good to hear straight from the car gurus, take care! Saludos desde Costa Rica 🇨🇷

[@Shop209]

No problem at all.

[@anthonymenchaca9952]

Can you tell me a the difference form a 68 and 69 dash? I’m tryna go digital in 68 and can’t find it

[@Shop209]

68 is a one year only instrument panel. The AC/Heat vents are round instead of rectangular and the ignition is on dash instead of column. The instrument cluster is diffferent as far as I know. You should be able to call Dakota Digital or Classic Instruments and see what is available. I’m not sure what is available for the 68 dash. Sorry I couldn’t be more help. Thanks for watching.

[@josechavez656]

Are the seat tracks the same? Can the seats interchange?

[@Shop209]

The bench seats and rear seats are the same bolt patterns. The buckets are different although I believe they’re really close.

[@kristahill4835]

Just wondering if the chasis/frame is the same?

[@Shop209]

Yes. The 74 has different holes for shock mount but frame is same from 68-74. You can just drill holes where needed if interchanging a 74

[@kristahill4835]

Okay, we have a 73, probably same scenario. The frame is all good except for one rear frame rail. Do you where the best place would be to source out rear frame rails.

[@1963corvette327]

can i put a bow-tie head liner in a 73 nova...tks

[@donbennett2134]

Will 73 rocker molding fit 68_72 novas

[@Shop209]

Yes. From the door handle down the cars have exactly the same body shape.

[@chadgoodtimehurt3]

What's the difference between a 74 Nova and a 75 Nova besides the windows and the hatchback

[@TheREALJosephTurner]

75 is a whole different body style.

[@chevynova-ev6qp]

I've got myself a little 73, first hotrod I could actually afford...I like the vent window in the 68-72 models better. Do you know if I can get all the guts of a 68-72 and put it in my 73 doors? Or should I just look for a new set of older doors?

[@Shop209]

It would be easier to just get a set of doors. The 73/74 doors are different where the vent window goes. Make sure that you get late 70-72 doors. From 68-to mid 1970 doors had bolt on hinges. Mid 70-up had welded.

[@chevynova-ev6qp]

@@Shop209 okay. Thank you!

[@chevynova-ev6qp]

@@Shop209 stupid question but should I just knock the pin out and take the door or cut the welds

[@Shop209]

Just knock pin out. It is a pain but better than cutting welds.

[@chevynova-ev6qp]

@@Shop209 that's what I figured...thank you!

[@nicholasyoder]

I just want to know can I put 69 Nova fenders, hood, grill, front bumper on my ‘76 Nova? I want to do it so bad

[@Shop209]

It would be a LOT of work. The subframe is a lot different.

[@nicholasyoder]

@@Shop209 the front bumper is the only thing that actually has to bolt to the subframe, correct? The radiator support I can jerry rig and I’ll use hood pins in the hood

[@Shop209]

Yes. But I’m not sure about the area around cowl panel and fenders.

[@nicholasyoder]

@@Shop209 ok I’ll probably post a video if I do it. Thanks

[@harleykidd7910]

I have a 73 Ventura that (might) have to be converted to a Nova (part availability). Although I’d like to keep it Pontiac (since they’re no longer around).. What are the differences between 73 Ventura/Nova? I’ve noticed body markers, but what about the body lines/windows etc..?

[@harleykidd7910]

What type of fabrications will I have to do? So many questions!

[@Shop209]

So there are a bunch of bolt on differences but not a ton of stuff that isn’t easy to change. It would be cool to keep it Pontiac but the parts are very hard to find in most places. Basically the rear tail light panel is the only major piece that is welded in that’s different on the body. The whole front clip sheet metal is different but can all bolt/unbolt to change. The core support is different too I think but I’m not sure.

[@harleykidd7910]

@@Shop209 thank you so much! I didn’t expect a same day/hour reply! It’ll be an interesting build for sure! I have a 400 Pontiac picked out for it!

[@bblacklin8890]

Are the inner fenders the same

[@Shop209]

Yes they are

[@SouthernMNFarmerGuy]

I just bought a '73 Nova. It needs a full restore, which I plan on doing. Is there any way we can talk? I haven't started yet, but I would literally pay you for advice. #MNfarmer

[@Shop209]

Email me at [e-mail]

[@clarencelawhorn8745]

Got 4.5 weld wheels what size skinny tires do you run on 15 inch rim

[@Shop209]

I think they’re 195/65/15. I’ll go check in a few.

[@Shop209]

I have 195/65/15 on front of FrankenNova with a 4.5” wheel.

[@clarencelawhorn8745]

@@Shop209 thanks so much love your videos I do paint and auto body got a real nice 1972 SS nova love them cars had a bunch of them over the years keep up the good job

[@bblacklin8890]

Will the floor pans inter change

[@Shop209]

Yes.

[@johnflood6656]

When we're hatchbacks introduced...are they more less valuable

[@Shop209]

1973 was the first year. I think they’re slightly less valuable than a trunk car of same year. Mainly because hatches that aren’t rusted and interior parts are very hard to find.

[@tylerbennett9044]

Are the trunk/deck lids the same 68-74?

[@Shop209]

Yes

[@aaronjuarez3303]

I have a 1973 nova ss fastback I can not find the roofskin online. Would a 1972 roofskin fix?

[@Shop209]

It will fit but would have to be trimmed around rear side windows. It would fit a hatchback also but need more trimming.

[@aaronjuarez3303]

@@Shop209 Alright, thank you very much!!

[@Shop209]

No problem!

[@jerryrichter4904]

what color is that and how you get that satin look the 1973 blue one. thanks

[@Shop209]

The satin look is plasti dip. The color is frozen blue. I have a video on it.

[@jerryrichter4904]

@@Shop209 thank you very much i will watch it

[@hotrodhardin]

The bumpers are different between 73 and 74, not just backing.

[@Shop209]

the outer shell is same design. Then 74 is different on inside of bumper to accommodate the reinforcement.

[@therealjeffboomhauer4528]

The large rectangular holes in a 74 are smaller than the holes in a 73 front bumper.

[@chevynovaca]

Rear bumpers are completely different in 73 and 74. Besides mounting brackets/style, bolt/mounting locations are different on the rear bumpers.

[@colbyfaulkenberry7558]

could you plz help me plz is a 1972 roof skin the same as a 1973 thanks so much

[@Shop209]

They are the same everywhere except right above sail panel. They can be made to fit pretty easily.