I'm working on doing the engine swap on my 73 RR from small block to big block and I see that there are inner fenders listed for big blocks,what's the difference between what I have and the big block one? And can I use mine or do I have to track down a big block inner fender?

I put a 440 in a 74 satellite a few years back, it was a little tight but it fit. the big block inner fenders have some extra material trimmed out near where the exhaust manifolds sit so there is extra clearance. I used headers in my build and didn't worry about the extra clearance I was able to get at everything and it all fit with no interference.

That's awesome to hear, I was starting to sweat a little my bird is at the body shop getting ready to be painted! So the big block inner fenders are just cut out in a spot to make more clearance for the manifolds?

Thanks - Ben

You will definately appreciate that feature when you have to change the spark plugs! DAMHIK!

With the metal removed, Ma Mopar utilized a rubber mat secured by clips that could be removed for access to the manifold area. This greaty aids accessability.


I supposed you could probably get away with cutting the sheet metal out and making a lip and then drill some holes for the clips. (With the engine out of course) A template would surely aid here.

Anyone mind showing me a picture oh how it looks?

Here's a shot out of the car...Yes the big block will fit with the small block right fender but it's close and the paint usually fries near the manifold...

A pic I took yesterday of a '74 400 Charger's inner fender & cover.

if you look closely, you can actually see some of the dimples stamped in the sheetmetal for where the clip holes are to be drilled. Looks like they all used the same stamping, then they just cut away the metal on the BB cars.....

Not quite on the subject of the inner fenders but I believe the big blocks used a pan unique to the 73-74 B bodies.

Yes, with the introduction of the isolated K frame came the "971" oil pan...The pan was actually used past the 74 model year into the cordoba,magnum, etc... line of vehicles... 971 pan link

Has anyone taken the chunk out of their small block inner fender and mimicked the big block... and not ruined their inner fender?