1962 - Really an original 340hp car?

[Anthony P.]

Hello,

I am going to look at a project car (in pieces) that the owner claims is an original Feb 62 built, 340 hp, 4 speed.

I know to look at the Higher Red Line tach, as well as all of the engine related stuff (stampings on block, heads, manifolds, intake, carb, generator), but what else should I look for to do "my best to verify" it was originally a 340hp?

Thanks,

Tony

[William C.]

Re: 1962 - Really an original 340hp car?

Correct valve covers with no casting flaws, and look for an ORIGINAL high performance '62 Corvette oil pan. If you don't have a good description, do a search in the archives and there is much info on the unique configuration of the SHP pan which was a '62-340/360 horse only item. If you are running short on time, drop me a PM and I'll slide under my '62 and grab you some pictures.

[Anthony P.]

Re: 1962 - Really an original 340hp car?

Thanks Bill. In addition to all of the engine related items and tach redline, are there any other differences, such as in the suspension, or other components?

Tony

[William C.]

Re: 1962 - Really an original 340hp car?

Unless equipped with the "off road" suspension option (race package) nothing was changed in the body or frame for a base vs 340hp car. Same suspension unless specifically selected as options, and those would have been available on any engine package

[Anthony P.]

Re: 1962 - Really an original 340hp car?

ok, thanks Bill. this was very helpful.

Tony

[Mike E.]

Re: 1962 - Really an original 340hp car?

Finned balancer. Timing chain marker with a point, not a rectangle, welded to the cover, not bolted. Properly dated 985 distrib. Generator mount plate is different than 250 and 300 hp plate. Those are some subtle things that come to mind immediately.
Good luck!
Mike

[Jerry W.]

Re: 1962 - Really an original 340hp car?

look for 4 inch dia generator pulley vs 3-5/8 dia. for base engine generator.....the crank damper/balancer was much larger in diameter than base engine....8 inch dia. i think....causing the timing tab on the cover to be welded futher out from the crank to accomidate the larger balancer dia.....also high rise aluminum intake with oil fill on passenger side of car...the throttle return spring anchor bracket is mounted with a single intake manifold bolt just forward of the left valve cover....engine would have solid lifters....dual points distributor with mechanical advance ( no vacumn can )

[Anthony P.]

Re: 1962 - Really an original 340hp car?

Thank you for all of the pointers.

Tony

[Bruce B.]

Re: 1962 - Really an original 340hp car?

Also, 1110985 non vacuum advance distributor.