68 small block spark plug shields

[Kurt Bunting (26406)]

Greetings,
I should have thought of this sooner, BUT can the spark plug shields that mount in the recess of the small block exhaust manifolds to keep heat from the spark plugs, be installed with the motor in the car or does it have to come back out?
Are these shields still available from GM or any aftermarket vendors?
Lastly, how are they held in place?
Thank you,
Kurt Bunting #26406

[George Dieterle (34796)]

Re: 68 small block spark plug shields

They can be installed with the engine in the car. However, they can be a little trying to install. They are held in place with 1/4-20 half inch long hex head bolts. There should be tapped holes in the block for the bolts. If you have an AIM consult it it for a better idea. I don't know if they are still available from GM, but the inner heat shields are available from most repro vendors.

Regards,

[Christopher Ritchie (238)]

Re: 68 small block spark plug shields

You can get at them with the engine in the car. Might be easier from underneath. I've done them from the top, but it's tricky. You can't see, and you're doing it by feel. Underneath is much easier. Little 1/4 bolts. I believe the ones with the integral lock washers. Same ones that hold the timing cover and clutch inspection plate on. The usual vendors sell the shields and the bolts. They're cheap. Chevy might also still carry the shiels, but you won't save much there because of their low price.

[Wayne Pope (722)]

Re: 68 small block spark plug shields

GM still has one of the shields which works in two places. The other will have to come from repro. As I recall on the right rear, the starter will have to be removed or at least dropped down.

[Joe Lucia (12484)]

Re: 68 small block spark plug shields

Kurt----

As others have described, you can install the shields with the engine in the car and the manifolds installed, but it's a little tedious. VERY do-able, though.

As far as availability of the shields, I've got good news and bad news for you. First, the good news. Both shields are still available from GM. Here are the part numbers:

left rear and right front-----GM #3817657

right rear and left front-----GM #3917664

Now the bad news: the GM #3817657 currently GM lists for $57.89/each. The GM #3917664 is much less expensive, though, at only $10.96 each.

I think that you could get these for less in reproduction.

[Kurt Bunting (26406)]

Re: 68 small block spark plug shields

Thank you one and all, for the informative replies.
Much appreciate it as always,
Kurt Bunting