How do I know if my GS was original 4 spd

[rd1970gs]

Hey guys,

New to this, I have a 1970 GS 455, and has console between front seats that ends at the seats and 4 spd comes through the carpet (no console there). I have researched the transmission presently in the car and it is a 1979 Borg Warner (pretty sure). How do I know if the car was an original 4 spd car.

I noticed that there is one extra bracket on the frame and steering column outside on the firewall but I have heard this could have been linkage such that when you would shut the car off you would put it in reverse and take the key out it would lock in gear on manual transmissions.

Thanks guys, this Buick is really fun to research, more intrigueing than the 69 chevelle I just sold.

[copperheadgs1]

Does car have correct speedometer without "PRNDLL markings? Tough item to find. Not 100% but one clue. See if hole in floor for shifter looks good or butchered. Does gas pedal have bracket for downshift switch? I am not a four speed expert but these are just things I have noticed. Also often times original standard trans cars had a yellow crayon mark behind the brake booster that was a large "C" for clutch. If car had disc brakes there would be a crayon marking "D" and a "C". If firewall has been repainted these are usually gone. Look closely at this as may be faded.

[Marco]

Hey guys,

New to this, I have a 1970 GS 455, and has console between front seats that ends at the seats and 4 spd comes through the carpet (no console there). I have researched the transmission presently in the car and it is a 1979 Borg Warner (pretty sure). How do I know if the car was an original 4 spd car.

I noticed that there is one extra bracket on the frame and steering column outside on the firewall but I have heard this could have been linkage such that when you would shut the car off you would put it in reverse and take the key out it would lock in gear on manual transmissions.

Thanks guys, this Buick is really fun to research, more intrigueing than the 69 chevelle I just sold.

Hi, and welcome to V8Buick.

Since it's a 1970 model, you're in luck. Factory documentation is available.

If the VIN is before #193,xxx - contact the Sloan Museum at (810) 237-3450 or at www.sloanmuseum.com.

If it's after that build sequence, contact Wayne Roberts at 248-879-2113 or contact him through this board - his user name is GSX455.

[gd2227]

Please take a second to check out the sticky on the top of the 'u shift em' thread... There are pics and such of various 4 speed parts. Good luck!

[rd1970gs]

Thanks guys, I contacted Wayne and will be looking it up for real, but it does look like my speedo was subtly modified and does appear to be a kick down bracket on the gas pedal linkage, so no orig 4 sp I think. That is ok, it is now.