For the C-1 "Mechanically Endowed"

[Tom Spurgeon]

I'm in the process of rebuilding the 283 (dated '57 only) for our 1960 Corvette. Once apart, the block was clean, no initial signs damage, water, etc. Measured at 3.875 cylinder bore and 1.985 crank. Interestingly, aluminum pistons, new rings, new gaskets and a faily snug timing chain were waiting for me, once we reached each area of the engine. So, I'm going to re-hone, clean her and install new bearings, rings. Then, put her back together. Now the rub...

The engine was equipped with a 2-barrel carb. I'm going to install a 4-barrel and intake (dated '60). The GM small blocks I've rebuilt were not equipped with the oil baffle in the lifter valley (my experience was with later models). The pan on the 4-brl intake will not allow for the baffle. Do you suppose I can simply remove the baffle? Any thoughts on the matter are appreciated.
Respectfully,
Tom Spurgeon

[Tom P.]

Re: For the C-1 "Mechanically Endowed"

Tom,
I presume you mean the "can" in the lifter valley.
Have you even done a trial fit of the manifold/heads/block yet? Its GOT to fit, or else something is TERRIBLY wrong! ALLLLLLLLLLLLLL small blocks up through 1967 had the baffle, and all intake manifolds (2bl, 4bl, 2x4 and FI) will bolt right up to a 265, 283, 327 and 350 (YES, there was a 350 with a baffle, I own one) WITH the baffle. So, YES, on 67-earlier engines, you WILL need the baffle

[Mike M.]

Re: For the C-1 "Mechanically Endowed"

Tom #1 : Tom # 2 has it right. mike

[Tom Spurgeon]

Trial Fit

Tom,
I have not done a trial fit. The "can" appears larger than the oil tubes I've seen in the past (of course this was duing the late 60's & 70's). To your knowledge, were there different designs of these tubes over the years? This thing "appears" huge. I'd estimate 2.50 inches across the diameter. Thanks again for the input.
Sincerely,
Tom Spurgeon

[Bill B.]

Re: For the C-1 "Mechanically Endowed"

Tom, I remember having the same type problem with my block and a manifold I found. Back then I just tried the fit very briefly, had the same problem as you and figured my cannister might be a different size than "some"(?), and just put everything back on shelf till later. I will go out and pay a little more attention tomorrow and see what I get. Maybe I can share some positive info with you. Nice to know there are at least two of us that are stupid (me and myself).

[Tom D.]

63 283 "Can"

I have a 1963 283 and I don't think the "can" is 2.5 inches in diameter. More like 2. I will measure it later today.

[Tom Spurgeon]

No Bill We're... "Mechanically Endowed"

Bill and others,
The family-owned auto store was 20+ years ago, some memories may have faded. I can't imagine that we retain EVERYTHING we ever saw and worked on. I'm sure Tom P. knows what he's talking about and I just need to try a "dry fit". It's just like I said earlier though -this "can" appears too large for intake clearance. I'll know for sure later this week. If there's news one way or the other I'll be sure to let our group know. In the mean time, if anyone does know if there were different baffle sizes, please let me know.
Again,
Tom

[Clem Z.]

some aftermarket manifolds are cast

different underneath and will not clear the "beer can". i "flatten" a few in my time

[Richard P.]

Re: some aftermarket manifolds are cast

I think I recall different lengths for the can depending on the application. (2 bbl vs. 4 bbl) All about 2 inches in diameter. My $.02
Rick

[Bill B.]

Re: It fit this time... "Mechanically Endowed"

Tom, I don't know what I did different but...if this helps:
cannister 2 1/4 in diameter
4 3/4 in long front to block mating rear surface
3 1/8 in height from block casting center to top of cannister (it probably barely touches bottom of manifold without gaskets)

Just figured out why it would not fit the first time I tried--forgot to remove my smashed finger.

[Tom Spurgeon]

Thanks everyone (and to Bill...)

I hope your finger heals quickly.

[Tracy C.]

I've heard about being "mechanically endowed" but

I'm gonna stick with the "al naturale" method for as long as I can...

tc

[Tom D.]

2.25 Inches in Diameter (1963 283) *NM*