327 Air Cleaner Bases - '67 vs '68

[Bob S.]

Hi folks -

I'm hoping someone can answer what the difference(s) are between the 1967 and 1968 air cleaner bases. I'm particularly interested in whether the 1968 had the same 2" filter element 'drop' from the carb as the 1967, and if the 1968 will fit a Holley carb.

Thanks and Best Regards,
Bob S.

[Joe L.]

Re: 327 Air Cleaner Bases - '67 vs '68

Bob-----

All of the Corvette open element style air cleaners used from 1965 through 1972 used the same drop down style base. Primarily, the differences in the bases relate to the angle of attachment of the PCV system hose fittings and certain relief "bumps" in the base for clearance of the particular style carburetor. In general, the differences in angles of the PCV fittings is pretty minor. Also, the carburetor relief "bump" differences are pretty minor, too. For the most part, the bases will usually fit either a Rochester or Holley carb without any modifications. However, it may be necessary to slightly indent a base.

I believe that the 68 base will fit a Holley carb with little or no modification.

[Jim T.]

Re: 327 Air Cleaner Bases - '67 vs '68

I had to modify my original owner 68 327/350 L79's open element carburetor base that came from the factory sitting on top of the engine's Rochester carburetor when I changed to a Holley double pumper carburetor in 1973. I had to relocate the fresh air supply pipe attached to the air cleaner base. My brazing is not professional level, although it has stood the test of time, the relocated pipe is still attached. I used a freeze plug to cover the original pipe hole in the air cleaner base and secured it with a silicone sealer still in place today. When I bought a new open element air cleaner assembly for my 70 Corvette about 16 years ago, it fit on the 70's double pumper Holley carburetor with only making a small indention of the fresh air pipe to remove the interference from the Holley carburetors rear accelerator pump arm.