1968-69 Fan Shroud Lower Baffle

[Joe L.]

I'm hoping that some 1968-70 owners that are reasonably sure that their cars are original could make an observation for me. The cars I'm interested in are any L-36, L-68, L-71 or LS-5 or small block with copper-brass radiator (all with M-40 and/or C-60 and most L-46 and LT-1).

For 1968-70 Corvettes with base engine and manual transmission as well as some L-46 used a circular steel fan shroud. Below the shroud there was a baffle of GM #3919755. This baffle can be seen in the 68-69 AIM's in UPC 11-13, sheet B4. For 1968-69 the lower retaining brackets for the circular shroud were attached to this lower baffle. For 1970, the baffle was eliminated and the circular shroud lower brackets attached to brackets mounted on the frame crossmember. It is possible that some early 1970s had the 68-69 set-up, though.

Anyway, I'm interested in whether or not the big blocks or small blocks with copper brass radiator and plastic fan shroud (GM #3956119 or 3956109, respectively) were also equipped with the lower baffle. It's real easy to spot if it's present.

[Dennis D.]

Re: 1968-69 Fan Shroud Lower Baffle

Joe

I have that on my 70 L-46, but I doubt it's original. You said "for 1968-69 the lower retaining brackets for the circular shroud were attached to this lower baffle." The lower baffle also has welded brackets. Both pieces are attched to a small bracket and then to the crossmember.

Interested about the copper/ brass radiator. I seem to remember 2 different tpye baffles.My lower baffle has an "U" shaped cutout on the right side front. Seem as though it would be there to allow clearance for a radiator lower hose. It's actually a seperate piece that removes in this area.(about 6" square). I assume to allow clearance. I have a 316 alum radiator, and my lower hose doesn't line up with this access area. It's as though its would fit a radiator with more width, like the copper/ brass. Curious

[Terry M.]

Re: 1968-69 Fan Shroud Lower Baffle

Joe,

My early 1970 LT1 (A29) has copper/brass radiator, plastic shroud with lower baffle (IIRC the parts book calls it an extension). I will have to look in order to be sure, but I think the number on the shroud is 119 -- is that the number you want?

[Terry F.]

Re: 1968-69 Fan Shroud Lower Baffle

My L-36 does not have the baffle. May build. Has plastic fan shroud. 4 speed car. I see no sign of it having a baffle. Thanks, Terry

[Joe L.]

Re: 1968-69 Fan Shroud Lower Baffle

Terry-----

The baffle I am referring to a a sheet metal piece which covers, roughly, the area from the crossmember forward. It is retained by the same bolts which retain the sway bar bushing retainers.

[Terry M.]

Re: 1968-69 Fan Shroud Lower Baffle

Ah, I had a different picture in mind -- I think I know, but it is best I look first.

[Terry M.]

Re: 1968-69 Fan Shroud Lower Baffle

Joe,
Nothing like that on my 1970 - A29, copper/brass, with a small block. There were however 2160 1970s built before mine.

[Joe L.]

Re: 1968-69 Fan Shroud Lower Baffle

Terry----

Thanks for checking. I think that by 1970 the lower baffle was gone for all Corvettes (even though GM SERVICE information says that it was still used).

I sort of doubt that it was used for 68-69, either, when the plastic fan shrouds were used even though GM SERVICE parts information implies that it was used for all applications. I'm not even sure that the plastic shroud would fit properly with the lower metal baffle in place. I'm going to make observations of 68-69 cars with plastic shrouds when I'm in Carlisle next week, though.