1970 Chevelle SS Big Block 4-Speed, Posi – Factory Red/Black
Older Frame-Off Restoration of a Solid Original California Car
Authentic LS6 or Just a Great Looking 1970 Chevelle SS, 4-Speed Posi, Big Block
You Be The Judge?
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IMPORTANT INTRODUCTION TO THIS AUCTION
Our reputation is built on complete, accurate and detailed descriptions of vehicles that we own and represent on behalf of other enthusiasts. This particular Chevelle comes to us from the cars second owner of 25 years who believes this SS454 to be a correct LS6 4-Speed SS. While we are unable to confirm that it is an LS6, there are a number of indications that the car may well be a desirable factory LS6. However, without a build sheet, window sticker, or other data we are unable to state definitively that the car has the pedigree of an LS6. However, the car has many features that would have been found on an LS6 including:
– Cowl induction hood (functional)
– 6,500 RPM tachometer
– Big block V8 with LS6 heads
– Posi-traction rear
– Casting # is unclear but may be consistent with LS6
– SS trim
– No A/C
– M22 4-Speed
HISTORY – THIS PARTICULAR 1970 CHEVELLE SS 454
When it comes to desirable muscle cars of the 1960’s – 1970’s the ’70 Chevelle SS 454 LS6 is certainly among the most iconic high performance cars of this fascinating era. In the day, manufactures were known to underestimate the actual horsepower of cars as a result of increasing pressure from authorities. That said, GM indicated that the big block 454 LS6 produced a whopping 450 hp and a”stump pulling” 500 ft. lbs. of torque. The LS6 is the highest output engine ever produced in a Chevelle.
This particular Chevelle is for sale by its long-time California owner who regrettably is offering the car for sale only a result of serious unexpected medical realities. He purchased the car in 1996, reportedly from the original California owner. The title indication under “Year First Sold” of 1970 is typically further support that the car was originally delivered in California.
When he purchased the car, while it was in need of restoration, it represented a solid, complete, and generally rust free example of a desirable 454 c.i. / 450 hp LS6 Chevelle 4-speed, well optioned car. With the help of professionals, considering the rarity and value of the Chevelle, he decided to complete a frame-off restoration on the Chevelle. The car has travelled only a few thousand miles since the restoration was completed being used primarily for shows, local cruises, and clear weather weekend use in Northern California.
During his ownership over the course of close to 25 years, the current owner had every reason to believe the car was as described by the original owner and represented a correct, numbers matching LS6 4-speed example. Regrettably, when the engine and transmission were completely rebuilt during the frame-off restoration, the block was decked and bored to .030 over and the numbers on the pad were removed during the resurfacing process. However, decoding of the component parts combined with the cars history suggests that the Chevelle is a correct, factory produced 1970 LS6 “big block” SS. We are providing coding numbers for the block, heads, transmission, rear-end, carburetor and other components so that prospective buyers can feel comfortable with the information presented in this description. We certainly encourage independent inspections by professional inspectors or prospective buyers to confirm the cars condition an authenticity.
The decoding of key numbers is a follows:
VIN#: 136370L160391 1 / 136370 / L / 603911
1 = Chevrolet
3 = Malibu (Chevelle)
6 = 8 Cylinder engine
37 = 2 Door Sport Coupe (SS)
L = LA Production
603911 = Production sequence #
OPTIONS
Based on our research and familiarity with Chevelles over the course of 25+ years, it appears as if this SS is fitted with the following GM coded options. While the build sheet and window sticker are not available, we have reason to believe that the car was issued with the following options:
LS6 – 454 LS6 450 hp engine (as reported by owner)
M22 – 4 Speed heavy duty transmission
G80 – Posit-traction rear end
JL2 – Power disc brakes
N41 – Power steering
A31 – Power windows
B22 – DR SS Emblems (Door Panel SS emblems)
D55 – Console
F41- Special performance suspension
J50 – Vacuum power brakes
JL2 – Power disc brakes
PL4 – F70 x 14″ BW (black wall)
880 – Roof Drip Molding
B96 – Wheel well moldings
U27 – Glove box light
C24 – Recessed Park wipers
C56 Upper level vent
U76 – W/S antenna
U63 – AM radio (now replaced with an upgraded system)
ZX3 – Deluxe Seat belts & front shoulder harnesses
Other options may be present.
TRIM TAG DECODING
Line 1: ST 70 -13637 = Year 1970 (production began in August/September time frame 1969)
13637 Chevelle Sport Coupe BL Van Nuys, CA 2398 NOTE: The Fisher Body Unit Number is unique to Fisher Body meaning it has nothing to do the car’s final VIN and will not match the last six digits of the car’s VIN.
Line 2: TR 756 – Interior Black Bucket Seats 75 75 Cranberry Red Body / Same Color Top
Line 3: 01A Body Date 01 = January A = First Week
371875 050189 = Found on Arlington, Atlanta, Baltimore, Van Nuys, and Kansas City trim tags. These consist of either two 6-digit numbers (Atlanta & Van Nuys), single 5-digit number (Kansas City), single 4-digit number (Baltimore) or a 3-digit number (Arlington) and represent several data processing numbers found on internal plant paperwork to track the car during assembly. They have nothing to do with any options and are only significant today if paperwork is found for the car and the numbers match up to show that paperwork belongs to that car.
DECODING THE NUMBERS ON THIS PARTICULAR CAR – ENGINE & DRIVELINE SUGGESTING LS6
With the assistance of a long time mechanic / specialty car mechanic, the significant numbers on the engine, transmission, and other components are as follows:
Engine Pad – Engine was rebuilt approximately 3K miles ago under the direction of the current owner who was/is unaware that during the rebuild, the block was “decked” resulting in the engine pas numbers being removed. We engaged the local police department to attempt to identify the marking in the same manner as is done with weapons but did not have a positive result.
Engine Casting – #3?963512 The block casting number appears to correspond to an LS6 (all of the visible #’s suggesting 454c.i. LS6 (450hp) from a 1970 Chevelle. The number of 3963512 is supported by a number of sources including the International Chevelle LS6 Registry. Note: the 2nd digit of the casting number is difficult to read (refer to close-up photos on our Website)
Engine Date Code: H2570
Heads – #3964281 Date coded 110 9 (refer to photos on Website listing) – Build date is January 1
Manifold Casting – #3963569 – Correct for a 454c.i. per International 1970 Chevelle LS6 Registry
Carburetor # – 31969898 Holley 4bbl – Proper for a Fed 454c.i.
Transmission # Casting # 3925661 Type: Muncie 4-Speed – Correct for M22
Rear End: 12 Bolt Posi-traction
Exhaust Manifolds – 3916178 (Right) Correct / 3909879 (Left) – Correct
FEATURES – 1970 CHEVELLE SS454
Specifically, we have been told by the cars long-time owner (over :
– 454c.i. / 450 hp
– M22 “Rock Crusher” 4-Speed
– Factory Posi-traction
– Power Windows
– Tilt Steering wheel
– Rally wheels
– Firestone Wide Oval tires
– Upgraded AM/FM radio (Door panels not cut for speakers)
– Highly detailed engine bay in original configuration
– Trunk detailed & rust free – includes wheel / jack & tools & trunk mat
– We regularly see Chevelles that have been modified, abused and mistreated over the years but this car has been adult owned and cared for, and it shows. Considering the car was restored several years ago, it presents well and runs great. This Chevelle will be well received at any car show and is reliable enough to use as a weekend cruiser.
CONDITION SUMMARY – 1970 CHEVELLE SS 454
To say this Chevelle SS attracts attention wherever it goes would be a dramatic understatement. When it was restored several years ago, the car was disassembled and the body removed from the frame and restored “ground-up.” The effort revealed that the car was a solid California car with no serious rust and generally straight panels and no major damage. However, the owner reports that while the car was complete, it was definitely in need of a restoration.
Since the restoration effort which the long time-owner indicated included a completely rebuilt engine and transmission, inspection of virtually every component and rebuild as necessary. The engine that was in the car when the owner purchased the car in 1996 and he was told, and believes, the engine is not only correct to the Chevelle but also represents the most sought after V8, the powerful LS6. Unfortunately, the engine was “decked” when it was rebuilt and the bore was increased .030 over resulting in the numbers being illegible. We engaged the help of local law enforcement who attempted to identify the engine pad numbers using acid (in similar fashion to identifying removed numbers from a weapon) in an effort to find numbers. Unfortunately, they were unable to identify the numbers so we needed to rely on casting and other ID markings to make a determination of the Chevelles authenticity.
The owner reports that since the restoration, approximately 15 years ago, the car has not been partially repainted or seen any accident damage. Also, the owner indicates that the car was free from previous damage at the time of the restoration. However, while the car has been used primarily for shows and occasional weekend use, it does have some cosmetic imperfections. Overall, the paint shows well, is laid flat and free from orange peel, surface rust and signs of damage on the body, inner front hood area, and inner trunk. Many of the imperfections are too slight to be seen in our extensive photos and represent minor nicks and chips from normal use. The most notable flaws are on the hood where signs of paint cracking can be seen. We often see signs of rust around the rear window area on this vintage car resulting in leaking into the trunk are. The Chevelle has no signs of current or past damage in this area and the trunk is exceptionally clean and dry. It has the appearance of being all original / unrestored and is in excellent condition. There are a few very minor areas on the lower rocker panel where
The Chevelle remains in largely stock configuration with the exception of being properly lowered by a few inches with the use of replacement (not cut) springs. Other changes are minor and include an upgraded AM/FM CD radio and hidden speakers (no damage done to the original “SS” door panels. The engine bay is totally stock in its configuration down to the correct CA smog equipment, GM hoses, and routing of hoses and lines.
Mechanically, the car is very strong and drives exceptionally well. The undercarriage is dry and shows clear sing of having been restored “frame-off.” The cars “big block” certainly does not disappoint delivering the kind of performance and torque that is so sought after in the “big block” V8’s of the 1960’s and 1970’s. The owner reports that the engine, transmission and a number of other original components were totally rebuilt within a few thousand miles. The cars odometer currently reads 30,096 miles, and is believed to be an actual 130,096. However, while we have reason to believe the mileage reading is accurate, as a 50 year old car we must represent the mileage as TMY (Total Miles Unknown).
The Chevelle passed the California required safety inspection and has completely functional lighting systems. It is smog exempt as a 1970 model year (any vehicle older than 1975 does not require a smog inspection in California).
It is important to emphasize that the owner of the Chevelle was very particular about this Chevelle and maintained it is running / driving condition at all times. .
Of course at the time of the restoration, the Chevelle received new rubber trim, aluminum stainless trim as needed (either re-done or replaced) and engine fittings, clamps, etc. Wheels were restored and new tires installed. All areas of the car (engine bay, undercarriage, trunk and interior) were detailed.
In addition to being a beautifully restored car, this car will appeal to the muscle car / Chevelle enthusiast whose interests are more performance oriented. In the most positive sense, this car epitomizes the no frills, higher performance 60’s muscle cars that were not weighted down with heavy unnecessary options. After all, performance was the name of the 60’s and, in our humble opinion; this Chevelle has just the right options (or more accurately lack of options!).
EXTERIOR PAINT / BODY / TOP
– Older complete cosmetic & mechanical restoration completed to a high standard (showing signs of age but presents well)
– Complete re-spray in Ferrari red
– Correct SS454 exterior trim
– “California clean” chassis and other suspension components
– Excellent panel gaps / fit
– Straight damage free undercarriage – no indications of repairs / damage or replacement
– Excellent exterior trim
– Dual side factory mirrors
– Wheel-well moldings
– Beautiful chrome bumpers with optional front bumper guards
– Restored Stock wheels
– Excellent glass & trim
– Functional locks including trunk
INTERIOR
– Bucket seat / console car
– Beautiful upholstery (front & back)
– Very stock interior
– GM seat belts & factory harnesses
– Original non-functioning AM radio
– Excellent carpet
– No dash cracks or damage
– Like new headliner
– All windows operate perfectly
ENGINE / DRIVE-LINE / WHEELS & TIRES
– Big block V8 4-Speed
– Appears to be M22 “Rock Crusher”
– Posi-traction rear end
– Proper lettered Goodyear Tires
– Dual exit exhaust system (as factory equipped)
– Highly detailed engine bay
– VERY strong running / driving “Big Block” Chevelle
HISTORY – 1970 CHEVELLE SS454
The age of muscle cars peaked as the 1970s began — and the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 helped to herald the ascent. When GM lifted its displacement ban on midsize cars, Pontiac, Olds, and Buick responded with 455-cid mills with up to 370 bhp. Chevy’s retort was a 454-cid V-8 that started at 360 bhp and ended at a barbaric 450. This was the muscle car summit.
The wrapper was a restyled Chevelle that again presented the Super Sport as an option package for hardtops and convertibles. As the SS 396, it cost $446 and came with a 350-bhp 402-cid V-8, power front discs, F41 suspension, Polyglas F70x14s, and a domed hood. Fat dorsal stripes were optional, but were included with the new $147 cowl-induction hood, which had a flapper near the base of the windshield that opened at full throttle to feed air to the engine.
The new SS 454 package cost $503 and included a 360-bhp hydraulic-lifter 454 called the LS5. Then there was the LS6. This was the take-no-prisoners 454, with a 800-cfm Holley four-barrel on an aluminum manifold, 11.25:1 compression, solid lifters, four-bolt mains, forged steel crank and connecting rods, forged aluminum pistons, and deep-groove accessory pullies. No production engine ever had a higher factory horsepower rating.
With mandatory options — including either the Rock Crusher four-speed or special Turbo 400 automatic — total cost for an LS6 was more than $1,000. Axles ranged from 3.31:1 to 4.10:1, with Positraction a $42 extra.
The SS Chevelle had a handsome new dash, and on the road, exhibited far more poise than its weight and size would suggest. But the LS6 made it a superstar. Sub-14-second ETs at over 100 mph were routine.
But the LS6’s thunder also seemed to signal an approaching storm, one that would dampen muscle for years to come. Testers sensed it. “Without even raising the specters of insurance and social justice,” said Car Life after an LS6 experience, “it’s fair to say that the Supercar as we know it may have gone as far as it’s going.”
LICENSE / REGISTRATION / INSPECTION
– Currently licensed & registered in California (Clear title)
– Passed recent California safety inspection (proper lights, turn signals, etc.)
– No smog required in California (vehicles 1975 and older are exempt)
PLEASE NOTE:
We encourage inspections of the Chevelle to verify condition and the numbers that we have identified. We have done our best to provide complete information based on the owner’s history, a specialized mechanic, and other sources but cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information contained in the description.
Thank you,
Classic Cars Ltd. 925-846-1451