Matching numbers 1974 Trans Am. Factory low optioned manual with 3.42 rear end.

1974 Pontiac Trans Am Additional Info:

Scroll down for additional photos and a brief walkaround video.
1974 was the last year for the small back window and true dual exhausts on 2nd gen Firebirds. In 1974 there were 3 color choices available (red, white and blue) and 3 engine choices available (400, 455 and 455 Super Duty) when ordering a T/A. If you wanted a 4 speed T/A in 1974 your engine choices were the 400 or the 455 Super Duty. All non-SD 455 T/A's were automatics. Checking the box for the 4 speed also got you a 3:42 rear end. This particular car was ordered with very few options - no air conditioning and no power locks or windows. The major options are the 'Custom' interior and the 8 track player. The car was even ordered without the hood bird, so the plain white hood is correct for this car. 1974 400 T/A's also did not get a 'callout' on the shaker.
I bought this T/A in 2001 with 61K miles on the odometer. At that time it was a running, driving car with original paint but it did have rust in the rear wheel arches. In 2005 the rear trunk extensions and outer wheelhouses were replaced with reproduction pieces. The RH side quarter was repaired with all GM sheetmetal and the LH side quarter was repaired with a full aftermarket patch panel. The doors, floors, trunk, hood, sills, roof, hood etc. are all solid and original. The car was then repainted in the original Cameo White color. New doors seals and roof rail seals were fitted at the same time. The car has been used and driven, so there are some chips along with a rust spot at the bottom of the RH quarter (behind the wheel) and the lower rear corners of both doors. The car still presents very well - the panels are all very straight and the gaps are very nice.
Mechanically the car did not need much work at all. The waterpump was replaced along with the timing chain (just to be safe). All perishable parts were replaced (hoses, belts etc.) and fluids were replaced. Brakes were all replaced or rebuilt including new rotors, calipers, hoses, shoes etc. The quadrajet is the original 7043262 version - it was sent to Cliff Ruggles for a rebuild in 2006. Over the years maintenance has been performed as needed, including a new clutch in 2010. As far as I can tell, the motor has never been out of the car. It runs very well and is extremely reliable. Oil pressure is good and the car never gets hot no matter how warm the temperatures are outside. The only non-stock mechanical items are a functional shaker flap (have the original) and a Flowmaster crossflow 2.5 inch exhaust system - it is mated to stock cast iron exhaust manifolds. The car does leave a spot of oil when parked, but I change the oil at the beginning of every season and it's never caused a problem. The correct and original alternator was rebuilt in 2017.
The interior is very nice - at the time of the repaint new carpet, parcel shelf, headliner and seat covers were installed. The dash is original and very nice with no cracks or warpage. The door panels and center console are original. In 2016 the gauges were sent to Pete Serio for refurbishment and recalibration and a new quartz clock was retrofitted (yes - the clock works!). The engine turned instrument panel was sent to Randy Combs for restoration. The white shift knob is a Hurst aftermarket replacement, but the original comes with the car. The Formula steering wheel is a reproduction of the 'fat' early years version. The original was replaced due to degradation of the foam but it also comes with the car. The silly seat belt interlock system is complete and intact, but it has been bypassed.
I have put over 10K miles on this car since I bought it and I would not hestiate to drive it anywhere. It makes great noises and the 4 speed just adds to the enjoyment. Windows are almost always wound down and tunnels are an excuse for a downshift. I have both sets of keys and the original glovebox manuals. I have a ton of receipts and documents that come with the car including a GM service manual, body assembly manual and GM 1974 vacuum routing manual. I also have original dealer brochures and postcards. A copy of the PHS is in the listing pictures.
I welcome and encourage prospective buyers to inspect the car before bidding - I will also work with any third party or 'on behalf' inspectors as needed. My wife and I are relocating overseas and sadly we cannot take the T/A with us. I can store the car at no charge for a short time after payment is received and will gladly work with the new owners shipping company.
Please don't hesitate to send me a message on eBay if you would like additional photos or have any questions.
Additional photos;
Walkaround Video (click to open);

On Oct-26-20 at 06:37:16 PDT, seller added the following information:

Sorry for the typo - carburetor number should read 7043263.