How do I buy a correct air cleaner for a late '61 2x4 270HP

[John G.]

My car built about March 20, 1961 has an air cleaner that is incorrect (it's apparently off a Pontiac). The vendors sell several reproduction air cleaners in both paper and "open foam" configurations. I assume I should buy the open foam. How many judging points if any will I lose with these? Or do I start the hunt for an original air cleaner?

[Bob R.]

Re: How do I buy a correct air cleaner for a late '61 2x4 270HP

I don't think any of the reproduction air cleaners will pass judging. It would be a 20% deduction on originality only you should get all the condition points. If you find an original you may get all the originality points but lose condition points based on the condition of the item. You will have to use the same type of element used originally on the car and again the reproduction would receive a deduct for originality of 20%.

[John G.]

Re: How do I buy a correct air cleaner for a late '61 2x4 270HP

Oh - the old originality vs. condition trade-off. My thought is to try to find an original and take some points deduction on condition. Might not look as good when I go to regular car shows I mostly do them for fun and fellowship and not the trophy.

[Dennis C.]

Re: How do I buy a correct air cleaner for a late '61 2x4 270HP

Depending on how the judges divide up points for the two piece air cleaner (plus wing nuts), you can expect to loose between 3 - 5 originality points for a reproduction air cleaner. If you can find an original in good condition, including silk screen, you can determine if the cost is worth the trade off in points. But remember, a used one might receive a condition deduct.

Also, be sure to use a foam element. The element is judged on its own line item and a paper element must receive a full deduct. This means you will also loose all condition points for this line item.

Dennis

[John G.]

Re: How do I buy a correct air cleaner for a late '61 2x4 270HP

I do have the foam and wire so OK on that point. Hopefully I can find a correct assembly or perhaps trade with someone who needs a Pontiac version.