'60 Top Ignition Shield

[Pete P.]

I'm confused about what's the correct top ignition shield for a 1960 carbureted Corvette. I have an early '60 with base 283 ci and 4 bbl carburetor. The GM Assembly Manual shows P/N 3730328 for the top shield and what appears to be a short front skirt. The Noland Adams Tech Guide confirms that part number. The NCRS judging manual states that the top shield should have a short front skirt. Every top shield I see for sale or auction with P/N 3730328 has the long front skirt. Can anyone help explain what shield is correct? Thanks. Pete

[Bob B.]

Re: '60 Top Ignition Shield

Pete,

1956-60 top shields used the short skirt (~3-3/8") and there are two holes in the back for putting the chrome bolts through. A magnet will stick to the top and sides of an original. The top is spot-welded onto the sides and the welding is sloppy and uneven and sometimes hits the edge of the top piece. The ends of the top are sort of rounded concave downward instead of straight across.

The 1961-62 cars used the top shields with the long skirts and they have the convenient slots on the back that slide over the bolts.

So, you want the short skirt version for your 1960. They are pretty easy to find.

Bob

[Pete P.]

Re: '60 Top Ignition Shield

Bob,

Thank you for replying with good information. I currently have the wrong top shield on my car. After what you said, I have the 61-62 version with the long front skirt. Also, I didn't realize that there are holes for the screws in back. I thought that the slots were standard on all of the shields. I'll be in search for a new top shield.

Thanks again.
Pete (20800)