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Just bought a 1970 383 4 speed Road Runner and have some questions...

T

transamdroptp08

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Onto the questions.

It has a 67 Hemi 4 speed coming with it as the original engine and trans are gone. I am undecided on what way to go with it. Restore it to original or restomod with updated parts etc. I like either but just don't know what way to go.

What are the pros of going restoration without the original block and transmission? As far as resale goes I am not worried in that aspect as I would like to keep this car for another 30-40 years.

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CodeDescription
E63383-4 Barrel
D21Heavy Duty 4-Speed Manual Transmission
RM23R = Plymouth Road Runner
M = Medium
23 = 2 Door Hardtop
NOEN = 383 330HP OR 335HP 1-4BBL 8 CYL
0 = 1970
E = Los Angeles, CA, USA
117266Sequence Number '117266'
FK5Paint Code: Dark Burnt Orange Metallic / Deep Burnt Orange Iri
H2X9Trim Grade/Style/Color
H = High
2 = Vinyl Bench
X9 = Black
TX9Upper Door Frame: Black / Black Velvet
B04Date Built: 11 / 04 / 1969
047230Order Number: 047230
FK5Roof Type OR Color: Dark Burnt Orange Metallic / Deep Burnt Orange Iri
A01Light Package
A363.55:1 High Preformence Axle Package
B51Power Assisted Brakes
J253 Speed Variable Wipers
L31Hood / Fender Mount Turn Signal
L21Cargo Lamp
N41Duel Exhaust w/o Tips
N85Tachometer
N95Nox Exhaust Emission Control
N97Noise Reduction Package
R22AM w/ 8-Track
Y14Sold Car 69-71
2626 in. Radiator
ENDEnd of Codes
 
Last edited:
Nice ride and well equipped. True restorations are for guys with large wallets who do not intend to drive their cars much. I just call mine a modified "driver. Do what you like, just enjoy the car.
 
I agree with Dennis H's comments, especially the parts about the 'large wallets' and "Do what you like, just enjoy the car."

For me personally, part of the fun and the challenge of bringing a car like yours 'back to life' is the research involved in learning how it was originally made at the factory. And I also enjoy the part about looking for those factory parts to use where ever possible/practical at places like Carlisle, here on FBBO, Ebay, etc.... It's a labor of love to restore old cars like ours, and no doubt that it's also a commitment. I choose to go the original route with my stuff, and I appreciate the others out there like me since I use their finished cars as a guide when I need help. But original isn't for everyone, and the arguement can be made that restomod is the easier way to go, both on your wallet and your sanity. :) That's why I think Dennis's comment about 'Do what YOU like...." is so important to remember.

One of the cool things about our hobby is that we are a pretty 'all inclusive' bunch. People can choose to restore their old car ALOT of different ways (Original, restomod, etc...) and find that their efforts will be appreciated and enjoyed at the car shows and cruise-ins they attend when they're finished. Just my 2 cents...

Steve
 
I had the same quandary on my 65 Belvedere. I could have gone original as it came with a 383 4brl 4 speed, manual brakes. manual steering etc. However I decided I could always put it back that way if I wanted to. So as you, I plan on keeping it and driving it. So I went restomod in function, Custom dash panel and gauges, power disc brakes. tilt column quick ratio power steering, 440 6 barrel. But I kept the old school looks. I find his gives me the best of both worlds.
 
Yup. Again, "do what you like" is perfect. I'd also like to add the comment of "Don't cut or alter any metal". Try to keep it original for the next owner. Find a good drivetrain, paint, make it safe and go have some fun!.
 
build it the way that makes you happy and enjoy it I like the modified myself with gobs of horse power
 
I think restomod is the best way for me right now. I actually ended up buying the rebuilt 383 that the guy had with the car aswell.

I need to have the rear deck lid, trunk, tail light panel and lower rear quarters redone but other than that the body is solid from there fwd. I think I got a good deal at 7k for it all too. He has around 3500 in receipts for the engine.

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max340 said:
Yup. Again, "do what you like" is perfect. I'd also like to add the comment of "Don't cut or alter any metal". Try to keep it original for the next owner. Find a good drivetrain, paint, make it safe and go have some fun!.
Click to expand...

As far as the next owner I would like it to be one of my kids. I plan on having this car for as long as I am on this side of the dirt and I am only 31.
 
We'll you'd obviously take a bit of a hit on a resto resale with the original engine/tranny gone. Doesn't sound like resale is a issue. So, what pro's are you looking for if going the restoration route? If going the restomod route, there are a lot more pro's IMO. They're hot on the market, they sell better. Typically they have a better return. You can have more power, more comfort, better braking, betting handling, more efficient electrical, audio and better lighting and to top it off.....you can build it how you want it. That's just my stance on it. If bringing it back to vintage 1970 is what float's you boat, by all means go that route. They have their own level of respect they command. They're two completely different animals, that's for sure. Good luck.
 
Dennis H said:
Nice ride and well equipped. True restorations are for guys with large wallets who do not intend to drive their cars much. I just call mine a modified "driver. Do what you like, just enjoy the car.
Click to expand...

Totally agree with the above comment and Propwash it the nail on the head, IMO. Restoration, while great, is an expensive proposition and honestly, cars and parts have come a looooong way in 40 years. IMO, I would fix it up as you can and want and tweak what you can by upgrading some things to 'new and improved'; like disc brakes, new upper control arms, etc, etc.
 
Thanks for the advice everyone.

I ended up picking up a 1970 date coded 383 engine that the previous owner of the car had just rebuilt.
 
The cash from selling the 67 hemi could go a long way in getting the car on the road.
 
On its way to my house. Buddy said my new 1500 Ram towed it like it wasn't there. 27' 3k lb trailer empty plus the car.

9CE0849B-15BA-4BB9-AF17-52A368BD60B4.gif
 
Dennis H has it right. You want to drive it and enjoy it, do whatever you want. It's your car.

Just sell me those wheels!
 
Looks like a nice project :)


I always liked FK5, its a color you don't see many people go back with. My dad is working on a 1970 Challenger that is FK5 with a white top and burnt orange interior.
 
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