Holley 3811 Original?

[Rick Stecchi]

How can you tell if a 3811 carb is an original or a service replacement?

And how can you tell if a carb is a Holley recent re-run with a restamped date?

Holley just released some units with no date stamped on them, I want an original not a restamp. How can I be sure it is original?

[Gerard F.]

Re: Holley 3811 Original?

Rick,

Originals have the GM number on the air followed by two letters which are the application code on the air horn. Under that is the list number,and under that is a 3 digit date (year, month, week).

You can tell a restamping by the texture of the air horn over the pressed out and restamped numbers. It would be smoother then the remainder of the air horn and may have a slightly different dichromate tint or hue. There is an article on this by Ron Shrum on the Restorer CD (24115.txt).

Other evidence of original 67 carbs is:

Slotted fuel bowl screws, hex were used after the late 70's early 80's
Slotted choke plate and throttle plate screws.
Simple staking of the choke plate and throttle screws. Newer replacements have the backs of the screws totally mashed over, originals have a simple punch in the hole in the back of the screw.
The screws which mount the secondary diaphragm to the body are slotted. Replacements used phillips.

The above is only evidence as these items could have been changed over the years.

Also see the 2005 Winter Restorer, there is a great article by Everett Ogilvie which points out differences in another holley carb. There is also slight main body differences, accellerator pump plate, and choke pull-off differences.

Jerry Fuccillo
#42179

[Dick W.]

Re: Holley 3811 Original?

Quote "You can tell a restamping by the texture of the air horn over the pressed out and restamped numbers. It would be smoother then the remainder of the air horn and may have a slightly different dichromate tint or hue."

That used to be true, but the carb guys (a least the one that I use) has gotten better. I cannot detect a restamp anymore. I used to be able to do it my feel.

[Robert C.]

Re: Holley 3811 Original?

Original Holley's have a 3 digit date code. Service repl. have 4 digit date code. Buy the Judging Guide for your year car!

[Gerard F.]

Re: Holley 3811 Original?

Bob,

Unless it was a replacement 1972 or prior, then it would have a 3 digit date code.

Jerry Fuccillo
#42179