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15 June 2018

Code K10 is the ultra-rare highway patrol Valiant Charger

By Aaron LoftsAaron Lofts
In late 1974, Chrysler announced option code K10 - an exclusive option set designed to meet the needs and requirements of highway patrol duties.

Incorporating many cost saving methods with the build, such as the flat rear window or the louvered panel behind the rear side windows (designed to hide the roof and quarter panel join), made the costs of building the Charger much more economical. The result was an entry-level Charger that could be sold for $2,800 – a relative bargain at the time.

In late 1974, Chrysler announced option code K10 - an exclusive option set that was available for the New South Wales police force, designed to meet the needs and requirements of highway patrol duties.

Police officers were more than happy with the performance of the K10 Charger. Police officers were more than happy with the performance of the K10 Charger.

The K10 option comprised of:

E36 – 265S six-cylinder engine fitted with the split manifold (as used on the VH Pacer and Charger R/T) and was also delivered with a number of E49 fittings.
D20 – 4-speed floor shift transmission
B51 – Power assisted disc brakes
T15 – Radial Tyres
W23 – Styled road wheels
G15 – Laminated windscreen
D53 – Suregrip rear axle
C63 – Reclining bucket seats

  • The full details of the K10 upgrades can be seen in the 'General Service Bulletin' pictured here. The full details of the K10 upgrades can be seen in the 'General Service Bulletin' pictured here.
  • The full details of the K10 upgrades can be seen in the 'General Service Bulletin' pictured here. The full details of the K10 upgrades can be seen in the 'General Service Bulletin' pictured here.
  • The full details of the K10 upgrades can be seen in the 'General Service Bulletin' pictured here. The full details of the K10 upgrades can be seen in the 'General Service Bulletin' pictured here.

As well as the above options, a number of upgrades were made to the steering, suspension, and brakes. The full details of these upgrades can be seen in the 'General Service Bulletin' pictured here. These options gave the highway patrol cars loads of performance & improved handling, making it easier for them to chase down speeding drivers and conduct their daily duties. Police officers were more than happy with the performance of the K10 Charger, and the reliability meant that the cars could be depended on – even on the toughest cases. Today, these ex-police cars are highly sought after by collectors, as well as being incredibly rare to come across for sale or on show.

Source: Survivor Car Australia

Would you want the K10 Charger to be your "Bluesmobile"? Let us know in the comments below.