BUYER’S GUIDE
1970 DODGE
CHALLENGER T/A BY MARK J. McCOURT • PHOTOGRAPHY FROM THE HEMMINGS ARCHIVES ILLUSTRATION BY ROBERTA CONROY
ENGINE
Like the 10 (!) other engines available under the hoods of 1970 Challengers, the “J”-code V-8 is famously durable. Factory mechanical specifications for the T/A can be found online at the 1970 Hamtramck Registry, which hosts the original Technical Service Bulletins. Most parts needed to maintain or rebuild a six-barrel 340 are readily available, and Mopar specialists around the country have the expertise needed to bring one back to as-built or better.
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HEMMINGS MUSCLE MACHINES
TRANSMISSION
Because this Challenger was technically a combination of options fitted to a base model, rather than an upscale trim level a la R/T, the close-ratio four-speed manual and three-speed TorqueFlite automatic exclusively used in the T/A were extra-charge items. Neither is troubleprone, and both are relatively simple for transmission specialists to service or rebuild.
INTERIOR
For all their performance, Challenger T/As are surprisingly accommodating and comfortable road cars. They were built to a price, though, so original materials didn’t always hold up. Replacement original-style interior parts including carpeting, seat foam and upholstery, headliners, and door/ side panels, can be purchased from reputable sources. Cracked dash pads can be restored, too.
