69 350/300hp

[Ashley Webb]

I have discovered that the carburetor on my 69 350/300 4 spd car is 7043208 not (7029203) and the intake manifold is 3973469 not (3927184).
Is there any logical reason why this configuration would better any better than the originaL setup or should I try to source the originals and install it.
If I leave it as is would I tune the carb using the same procedures as if it were the original 7029203.
Many thanks
Ashley Webb
New Zealand

[Joe L.]

Re: 69 350/300hp

Ashley-----

The manifold is a 1971 model year manifold and the carburetor is a 1973 model year carburetor. It's possible, though, that the carburetor has been converted to 1969 specs after having gone through a carb rebuilder's operation. After rebuilding by commercial rebuilders, the original stamped or tagged part numbers are often irrelevent for components like carburetors, alternators, starters, and distributors.

I would say that, functionally, the parts are equivalent to the originals---neither significantly better nor significantly worse. One aspect is better, though. The manifold does not have the carb heat groove in the carb flange. The 3927184 manifold was the last small block 4 barrel manifold to use this feature. This "feature" is far more detrimental than beneficial. I recommend that it be eliminated by drilling, tapping, and plugging the holes at either end of the groove on the '184' (or other manifolds with it). In the case of the '469' manifold that you have, it's not necessary to perform this operation since no groove is present.

So, it boils down to this: if you want the car to be "correct" with respect to engine components, then you need to get the right manifold and carburetor (and, if your smart, plug the carb heat groove on the manifold). If your interest is primarily in functionality, I think that you have what you need and you won't accomplish much, if anything, by seeking out and obtaining the original parts.

[Ashley Webb]

Re: 69 350/300hp

Thanks for your help Joe.
I will leave as is for now, however, I will change it back to original in the future as I have already purchased a correct manifold and WILL DEFINITELY do the modification as suggested.
Ashley Webb