1973 Plymouth Duster – 440 V8 Swap – Big Block A-Body Mopar
Up for sale is a modified 1973 Plymouth Duster with a strong big-block personality, classic Mopar style, and a long list of recent mechanical updates. Originally equipped as a Gold Duster with a 225ci slant-six, this A-body Plymouth has since been upgraded with a 440ci V8, TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission, and a rebuilt 8¾” rear end with Sure Grip and 3.55 gears.
The car was repainted in a striking copper finish with black accents, including a black hood, grille, bumpers, fuel cap, and taillight bezels. Black “440” side graphics, a hood scoop, and hood pins give the car the right period street-machine look without going over the top. It sits on brand new 15” slotted-aluminum US Mags Indy U101 wheels mounted with BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires, giving it a clean and muscular stance. Receipts attached.
Under the hood, the 440ci V8 is fitted with a Weiand Team G intake manifold, Holley carburetor, Edelbrock open-element air cleaner, Moroso polished valve covers, Champion aluminum radiator, tubular exhaust manifolds, and a dual exhaust system. During current ownership, the Holley carburetor was rebuilt, and the fuel pump, alternator, distributor, spark plugs, plug wires, ignition module, and ignition coil were replaced.
Additional recent work includes installation of a rebuilt narrowed 8¾” rear end with new ring-and-pinion bearings, axles, carrier, Sure Grip differential, and 3.55:1 gears. The car also received a 1¾” front sway bar, plus brake service including replacement wheel studs, rear drums, brake lines, and hoses.
Inside, the cabin retains a vintage Mopar feel with gold-colored vinyl bench seats, a woodgrain-trimmed instrument panel, heater, Chrysler Solid State AM radio, lap belts, and supplemental front shoulder belts. The car was factory-equipped with air conditioning, though the A/C components are disconnected.The five-digit odometer shows approximately 22k miles, though true mileage is unknown.
While some cosmetic blemishes exist, namely the peeling on the roof and some paint chips here and there, this thing DRIVES and with paint and a new dashpad is a high quality car for the price point.
Included with the sale are the broadcast sheet, recent service records, a set of removed Cragar 15” wheels, and a Kansas title in the seller’s name.
For someone looking for a classic A-body Mopar with big-block power, vintage attitude, and plenty of recent drivetrain work already completed, this 440-powered 1973 Plymouth Duster is a compelling platform to enjoy, improve, and make your own.
