C1 61 Big Tank?

[Ron R.]

My ten year old restoration is getting a second life and turned over to a professional. She is a big brake, heater delete, radio delete, HT only 283/315 car. My resto guy is wondering about these areas of the gas tank bay that have been glassed in poorly. Is this where the factory would have cut holes for the rear tank straps? If the link I've attached doesn't work, please let me know and I can email pictures separately. This car was felt to be on the SCCA in it's past. If these extra holes weren't for a big tank, what else may they have been used for?
Thanks,
Ron




61vetteinresto

[Mike E.]

Re: C1 61 Big Tank?

Ron--
Those holes have nothing to do with a 24-gallon tank, sorry. They have much more to do with someone in a hurry to do things wrong. Round holes are standard for fuel line area--other holes are jury-rigged for who knows what.

[James G.]

Re: C1 61 Big Tank?

Loren Lundburg has some great factory photos of big tank solid axel cars. And of course, Mike Earnst has already commented. The car may have had a 'tank' added. Not uncommon during the time when people went racing after purchasing a fuel injected car. Does the car have RPO 687 H.D. suspension and brakes? Only 233 cars were built at the factory with the option. There appears to be no count for 61 big tank cars, but my best guess is 25 to 35 cars came from the factory with a big tank. In 1960, we believe only 12 were made. A lot of research is currently underway to discover more history on all 935 or so heavy brake / suspension Corvettes manfactured between 1956 and 1962. Let me know if you want to get involved with this history search.

[Ron R.]

Jim and Mike - Thanks

Thanks for your reply. I don't want to counterfeit a car, but resto it back to the way we think it left the factory. I do have the RPO 687 H.D. suspension and brakes options also. Two circular holes were cut into the front molding on each side to presumable allow more air to the elephant ears and brakes. I've been told the holes were common on the SCCA circuit. I really want to get into the history of this car, especially as it pertains to her suspected racing past. I've got proof that she was hit hard on the drivers side and repaired with parts from a 59. I can send pictures or give you all the info I know up to this point. Please let me know how I can help with your history search.
Regards,

Ron