68 Big Block Waterpump

[Richard Hayes]

I was going through a box of parts that came w/ my car when I bought it (in 1981!). The waterpump is 3868284 and dated A-24-8. So- I'm assuming Jan 24 1968. From my understanding the Corvette BB pump was 385624 for the 68. What does this one go to?
Thanks in advance-

Richard

[Terry F.]

Re: 68 Big Block Waterpump

Sounds good to me on the date. I might have the pump number written down wrong but I have it shown as 3856284. I would send it off and have it rebuilt or you can send it to me

Take care, Terry

[Richard Hayes]

Re: 68 Big Block Waterpump

Thanks Terry...after closly looking at the number (or using a better light)- It does look to be 3856284 AND the year is 6 not 8. With the correct numbers I was able to find a lot more information!!

Richard

[Terry F.]

Re: 68 Big Block Waterpump

I am glad! I have a 68 also, 390 hp 4 speed. If you have questions, let me know. If you have extra parts let me know
Terry

[Joe L.]

Re: 68 Big Block Waterpump

Richard-----

The GM #3856284 is a VERY common big block waterpump casting. It was the ONLY casting used for all 1965 to 68 big blocks, Corvette and otherwise. It was last used for early 1969 for Corvettes only.

[Joe T.]

Re: 68 Big Block Waterpump

Could anyone tell me the corect casting number for a later 69 390/427? The car has a build date of around 15 August 1969. I have been under the impression that the 3868284 was the casting number. What was the casting for the later 69's? I hope this isn't considering "high-jacking" this thread?...Regards...joe

[Joe L.]

Re: 68 Big Block Waterpump

Joe-----

Hi-jacking is only a no-no on airplanes. Here, it's generally considered ok. However, you can always start a new thread with that question if you want a "clean deal". Sometimes, that can be the best way to do it since, this way, your question might get "buried" with few responses.

Anyway, to your question: later 1969 Corvette big blocks, and CERTAINLY those built as late as August, 1969, used waterpump casting GM #3940960. This casting is a whole lot more rare than the 3856284. That's because by the time that it came into use the short leg style waterpump was used only for Corvettes and some MD/HD trucks. So, not a lot of these were ever manufactured. Plus, it was superceded by the GM #3992077 casting for the 1971 model year. So, the 3940960 was only used for about a year and a half (late 1969-1970). They're around to be had, though. Bill Mock can probably fix you up with one if you so-desire.