Hi everyone, I'm new to the board. I was searching around on the net for chevelle forums and this one looks like it will be very helpful with my new project. I've recently picked up a bargain 1971 chevelle that has been prepped and ready for paint. One thing I'd like to do (some of you might think this is sacrelige) is something I saw in Car Craft a couple years ago. I'd like to put the 70 front end (grill, headlights) on the car before it's painted. I was hoping to keep the 71 fenders (if they'll work?... no sidemarkers but oh well) and buy all of the pieces I need for the front. I know buying repro pieces is probably expensive but I'm going to look for this stuff at swap meets and on part-out cars. I was wondering if anyone has ever done this before and maybe has some hints or advice? Thanks in advance, and nice job on getting REAL muscle car enthusiasts together. graemlins/thumbsup.gif

First off welcome to the site!! graemlins/hurray.gif

The fenders off your 71 willnt bolt up the 70 fender ext. This is because the inner struture of the 70 and 71 fender is different. You could find some junk 70 fenders remove the inner structure on both your 70 and 71 fenders and piece it together. But without the 70 inners the ext WILLNT bolt on nor will the headlights fit.
Also you need a different core support as the 70-71 support is different. Front bumper and bumper brackets are also different. Will nedd the front grille filller panel or front valance. Oh if you do buy a used support better make sure it has all the brackets to bolt the grille, fenders, and the fender exts also bolt to the support. Those brackets are NOT made repro so you will need to find OEM or used parts.

Am sure am missing something else...Eric

I believe you will also have to aquire a front wire harness for the 70 and not the 71. You need this because the 70 has the four headlights where as the 71 has the two larger ones. Finding one is good useable shape may be tough to do, but you can buy em new for 125.00 from Original Parts Group. I'd recommend also getting the moldings that fit under headlight housings. These fit between the housings and the bumper. Thus preventing the bumper, if it's misalinged, to rub the bottom of the pot metal housing. This swap can be done if you know what you're getting into. I have a friend who has a 72 with a 70 nose and it looks great. Also if you do decide to swap harnesses you will have to rewire the parking lights. They are different and use different plugs that twist in the turn signal housings.