Restoring a classic like the ’70 Impala is a rewarding journey for car enthusiasts and collectors alike. Our comprehensive shopping guide for ’70 Impala parts offers trusted resources, expert tips, and essential product recommendations—helping you preserve authenticity, enhance performance, and maintain the timeless appeal of your iconic muscle car. Start your restoration adventure with confidence and find everything you need right here.
70 Impala Parts: Types, Variations, and Applications
Restoring or upgrading a 1970 Chevrolet Impala is an exciting journey, but navigating through the many parts and options can be overwhelming. To make your project easier, here’s a quick comparison table summarizing the most common types, their main applications, and notable characteristics:
| Part Category | Examples | Key Applications | Typical Materials | Factory vs. Aftermarket Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body Panels | Fenders, hoods, quarter panels, doors | Structural repair, rust repair | Stamped steel, ABS | Both |
| Trim & Moldings | Side moldings, emblems, badges | Appearance, originality | Chrome, stainless steel | Both |
| Interior | Seat covers, dashboards, carpets | Comfort, aesthetics, OEM look | Vinyl, ABS, cloth | Both |
| Engine Components | Carburetors, valves, gaskets, radiators | Performance, reliability | Steel, aluminum, rubber | Both |
| Suspension & Chassis | Control arms, springs, bushings | Handling, stability, safety | Steel, rubber, polyurethane | Both |
| Electrical & Lighting | Wiring harnesses, taillights, radios | Functionality, safety, upgrades | Copper, plastic | Both |
| Brakes | Rotors, calipers, pads | Safety, stopping power | Steel, ceramic | Both |
| Weatherstripping | Door, windshield, trunk seals | Water/air sealing, noise reduction | Rubber | Both |
| Glass | Windshields, side and quarter windows | Visibility, protection | Safety glass | Both |
Recognizing Quality in 70 Impala Parts
When shopping for 1970 Impala parts, prioritizing quality is critical—especially since many components play a direct role in your vehicle’s appearance, safety, and longevity.
What to Look for in Quality Parts
- OEM Standards and Fitment: Choose parts that meet or exceed original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications. Accurate fit and proper alignment are essential, especially for sheet metal and trim.
- Material Excellence: For body panels, stainless steel or heavy-gauge stamped steel resists rust and lasts longer. For interior parts, opt for high-grade vinyl or ABS to prevent premature cracking or fading.
- Finish and Plating: Exterior trim and bumpers should have a uniform, thick chrome or stainless steel plating. Inferior chrome can peel or pit quickly.
- Manufacturing Credentials: Established brands (like Dynacorn, Goodmark, Trim Parts, and OER) are recognized for their consistency, warranty support, and long service life.
- Certifications: Look for parts with manufacturer certifications or guarantees, which indicate testing and quality assurance.
Spotting Low-Quality Parts
- Thin or inconsistent metal, visible weld lines, poor paint or plating
- Fragile, ill-fitting plastic on interior pieces
- Weak or incomplete hardware kits with missing fasteners
- Vague, nonexistent warranty or unclear returns policy
Customization Options for 70 Impala Parts
The 1970 Impala is beloved both as a concours-quality classic and a canvas for custom builds. Whether you aim for factory perfection or personalized flair, you’ll find a variety of customization options:
Customization Choices
- Body and Trim:
- Variety of chrome, blackout, or color-matched molding kits
- Badging upgrades or custom script designs
- Interior:
- Factory-matched or completely bespoke seat covers and carpet kits
- Digital gauge clusters or period-correct analog replacements
- Custom dash pads, steering wheels, and headliners
- Suspension:
- Stock height, lowered, or air ride suspension kits for adjustable stance
- Polyurethane bushings for improved handling over original rubber
- Engine Bay:
- Bolt-on performance upgrades (e.g., intake manifolds, carburetors, electronic ignition)
- Polished aluminum or chrome dress-up kits
- Lighting and Electrical:
- LED conversion kits for brighter, more reliable lighting
- Modern sound systems with classic radio faces
- Brakes:
- Upgrade from drum to disc brakes for enhanced safety and stopping power
Mix and Match for Personalization
Thanks to broad cross-compatibility across B-body GM platforms (Impala, Caprice, Biscayne, Bel Air), many parts can be mixed and matched to suit your vision.
Durability—Ensuring Long-Lasting Value
Durability is a top concern, both for everyday drivers and show queens:
- Body Panels: Seek e-coated or galvanized steel panels—they resist rust much better.
- Trim and Moldings: Stainless steel doesn’t pit like chrome does over time; for chrome, pick triple-plated options.
- Glass: Modern safety glass replacements meet higher strength standards while offering greater UV protection.
- Suspension Components: Polyurethane bushings significantly outlast rubber (ideal for drivers wanting longevity).
- Interior Upholstery: High-quality vinyl, leather, or cloth can withstand UV and resist cracking/fading. Double-stitched seams and factory-correct materials boost both durability and resale value.
- Wiring: Choose reproduction or upgraded wiring harnesses with modern insulation to avoid brittle or frayed wires.
Practical Tips and Advice for Choosing & Using 70 Impala Parts
1. Plan Your Restoration or Project Phase-by-Phase
Break your rebuild or upgrade into manageable sections: body, interior, powertrain, suspension, etc. This prevents overwhelming costs and helps you track progress effectively.
2. Verify Compatibility
- Double-check part fitment, particularly for trim, glass, or engine upgrades.
- Many classic Impalas share GM’s B-body platform, but small differences (e.g., coupe vs. sedan, convertible vs. hardtop) affect part selection.
3. Prioritize Safety and Legal Compliance
- Always use DOT-approved glass and lighting.
- If swapping key components (engine, brakes), ensure compliance with your state or country’s road regulations.
4. Source from Reputable Suppliers
- Choose vendors known for quality, after-sales support, and comprehensive parts diagrams to aid your selection process.
- Look for companies that stand by their products with hassle-free returns and technical support.
5. Consider Restoration Services
- Some suppliers offer factory-correct restoration or rebuild services for critical engine, brakes, or interior components.
- Restored original parts (NOS or reconditioned) retain more value for concours projects.
6. Budget for Small Parts and Hardware
- Don’t neglect the need for new fasteners, clips, or seals. Kits designed for your specific year/model speed up assembly and improve fit and finish.
7. Document and Label Everything
- Carefully document original assembly and wiring—take progress photos, label each part, and organize in project bins.
Technical Comparison Table: Key Features & Specs of Common 70 Impala Parts
| Part Type | OEM Spec/Upgrade | Key Materials | Durability Features | Installation Difficulty | Custom Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fender | OEM/Aftermarket | E-coated Stamped Steel | Rust-resistant coatings | Medium | Yes: custom vents, flares |
| Bumper | OEM/Aftermarket | Steel/Triple-plated Chrome | High-quality finish | Medium | Yes: chrome or blackout |
| Dash Pad | OEM/Aftermarket | Molded Foam/Vinyl | UV resistant top layer | Medium | Yes: colors, digital gauge |
| Seat Covers | OEM/Custom | Vinyl/Cloth/Leather | Double-stitched seams | Medium | Extensive: patterns/colors |
| Wiring Harness | OEM/Upgraded | Copper, Modern Insulation | Modern safety standards | Medium | Stock or custom circuits |
| Brake System Kit | Drum/Disc Upgrade | Steel/Ceramic Pads | Modern friction compounds | High | Performance or stock look |
| Suspension Bushings | Rubber/Polyurethane | Poly, Rubber | Poly = longer life | Medium/High | Yes: firmness, color |
| Glass | Safety, Tinted | Laminated Safety Glass | UV protection | High | Tint/shade options |
| Exterior Molding | Stainless/Chrome | Stainless/Chrome | Triple-plated, show finish | Medium | Factory or custom finish |
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Conclusion
Choosing the right 1970 Impala parts is a blend of passion, research, and smart shopping. By focusing on quality, verifying compatibility, and selecting reputable suppliers, you ensure your project not only looks amazing but performs reliably for years. Whether aiming for showroom perfection, dependable cruising, or adding custom flair, thorough planning and attention to detail make all the difference. With countless options for restoration, upgrade, and personalization, the classic Impala remains one of the most rewarding vehicles to own—and restore—for enthusiasts everywhere.
FAQ
- What are the most common parts needed for a 1970 Impala restoration?
For a full restoration, the most commonly replaced parts include body panels (fenders, quarter panels), bumpers, interior upholstery, dash pads, moldings, seals, wiring harnesses, suspension bushings, and engine components.
- Are reproduction parts as good as original (OEM) parts?
High-quality reproduction parts often match or even exceed the originals in fit, finish, and durability, especially when sourced from reputable brands. For highly authentic restorations, OEM or NOS parts are preferred but can be costly and harder to find.
- Can I upgrade the brakes on my 1970 Impala from drums to discs?
Yes, disc brake conversion kits are widely available and are a popular upgrade for improved safety and performance. Kits often include all necessary components and instructions for straightforward installation.
- How do I ensure the parts I buy will fit my specific 1970 Impala model (e.g., coupe, sedan, convertible)?
Carefully verify your car’s body style, trim level, and factory options before ordering. Many suppliers provide fitment guidance or diagrams. When in doubt, consult the seller or an experienced mechanic.
- Are there differences between aftermarket and NOS (New Old Stock) parts?
NOS parts are original, often decades-old components never installed on a vehicle. They typically offer perfect fit and finish but may be more expensive. Aftermarket parts, especially from leading brands, can match NOS quality at a lower price and are more readily available.
- What materials are best for weatherstripping and seals?
High-grade EPDM rubber provides flexibility, durability, and weather resistance. Modern reproduction seals often outperform original materials, keeping out water and noise more effectively.
- Can I mix and match parts from other GM B-body models (like Caprice or Biscayne) with my Impala?
Many mechanical components and some sheet metal, especially from the same year or close model years, are interchangeable among B-body cars. Always check part numbers and compatibility charts before mix-and-matching.
- How important is it to use rust-resistant coatings on body replacement parts?
Extremely important. E-coated or galvanized panels provide lasting protection against rust, preserving your restoration investment—especially if the car is exposed to moisture or road salt.
- Are there options for customizing the interior of my 1970 Impala?
Absolutely. You can select from factory-correct upholstery to custom colors, materials, and stitching. Aftermarket dash panels, modern sound systems with vintage appearance, and digital gauges are widely available.
- Should I attempt installation of complex parts myself, or hire a professional?
Routine bolt-on parts can be installed by confident DIYers with basic tools. Complex tasks—like suspension swaps, wiring, body panel alignment, or glass installation—are often best left to experienced professionals for safety and the best final result.