Ignition and other items for Crate Engine for C2

[Rob M.]

Hi,

I am putting a GM 350/290 hp crate engine (GM #12499529) in my 1963. I am using a stock tach drive distributor instead of HEI. To round out the picture, I am using an Edelbrock Performer 2102 intake, 1968 style Q-jet carb and 1968 style air cleaner/PCV system. Hoping for help with the following questions:

1. The crate engine instructions recommend AC Delco #R45TS spark plugs and an HEI system for this engine. Would the AC R45TS plugs be appropriate to use with this engine set-up with a traditional distributor?

2. Are there special requirements for spark plug wires, distributor cap, points, rotor, etc. with this set-up or should I use what would typically be used on the base mid 1960s 327 or late 1960s 350?

3. Would a 180 degree F. thermostat be the best option for this set-up?

4. Which oil filter adapter would be best for this engine? oil filter bypass?

5. The crate engine installation instructions recommend an AC Delco CV774C PVC valve? Does this make sense with Q-jet and 1968 style air cleaner/PCV system?

Thanks,
Rob

[Joe L.]

Re: Ignition and other items for Crate Engine for C2

Hi,

I am putting a GM 350/290 hp crate engine (GM #12499529) in my 1963. I am using a stock tach drive distributor instead of HEI. To round out the picture, I am using an Edelbrock Performer 2102 intake, 1968 style Q-jet carb and 1968 style air cleaner/PCV system. Hoping for help with the following questions:

I think you mean Edelbrock 2101; I don't know of a 2102 unless it's something very new.

1. The crate engine instructions recommend AC Delco #R45TS spark plugs and an HEI system for this engine. Would the AC R45TS plugs be appropriate to use with this engine set-up with a traditional distributor?

Absolutely fine. If you're going to use AC spark plugs, I'd go with these.

2. Are there special requirements for spark plug wires, distributor cap, points, rotor, etc. with this set-up or should I use what would typically be used on the base mid 1960s 327 or late 1960s 350?

No special requirements for any of these ignition parts. All stock AC Delco will be fine. However, I'd probably use Standard Motor Parts "Blue Streak" series for the cap, points and rotor.

3. Would a 180 degree F. thermostat be the best option for this set-up?

A 180 degree thermostat is what was originally used for your application and is exactly what I recommend now.

4. Which oil filter adapter would be best for this engine? oil filter bypass?

Use oil filter adapter GM #3952301. This includes the bypass valve. It is used with a spin-on type oil filter.

5. The crate engine installation instructions recommend an AC Delco CV774C PVC valve? Does this make sense with Q-jet and 1968 style air cleaner/PCV system?

The CV-774C PCV valve should work fine.

[Rob M.]

Re: Ignition and other items for Crate Engine for C2

Thanks Joe. Appreciate the guidance. You are correct --- I was referring to the Edelbrock Performer 2101 intake manifold which seems to have a lot more holes than I need! I presume I will have to plug some of them.

With this 1968 era air cleaner and PVC system, would my M/T valve covers (# 140R-50B) work? They currently have two oil fill caps and one grommet opening.

[Joe L.]

Re: Ignition and other items for Crate Engine for C2

Thanks Joe. Appreciate the guidance. You are correct --- I was referring to the Edelbrock Performer 2101 intake manifold which seems to have a lot more holes than I need! I presume I will have to plug some of them.

With this 1968 era air cleaner and PVC system, would my M/T valve covers (# 140R-50B) work? They currently have two oil fill caps and one grommet opening.

Robert-----


The 2101 does not have a lot of unused openings that need to be plugged for your application. I would say only 2 or, maybe, 3.

The valve covers you need will have to have the smaller, grommet-fitted openings on both sides. The right side will have to be oriented to the rear and the left side oriented to the front.

[Rob M.]

Re: Ignition and other items for Crate Engine for C2

Thanks, Joe!