1960 Corvette Engine Identification

[Mark P.]

Is there a way I can tell what engine type (230HP, 245HP, 250HP FI, 270 Hi-Lift, etc.) and transmission (MT or Auto) came with my 1960 ?

The engine and transmission were removed in the 1980's and replaced with a 350 crate engine and a M20 Muncie from 1964/65. I am trying to track down previous owners but no luck yet.

The 5300 RPM generator tach looks original. That would limit it to a 230Hp or 245HP engine, right ?

I heard there are some holes in the engine compartment that could help me rule out it was a Fuelie. If so what should I look for ?

[Bill M.]

Re: 1960 Corvette Engine Identification

The fuelie has a plate riveted to the left inner fender just below the hood lip. It has two threaded holes; one on each side of the rivet. The rivet on my '59 measures 8 inches ahead of the front edge of the master cylinder. This plate was used to mount the FI air cleaner. I believe the '60 should be the same.

[Mark P.]

Re: 1960 Corvette Engine Identification

Thanks Bill. I checked and I have no plate as you mentioned. That helps me rule out FI.

[Bob B.]

Re: 1960 Corvette Engine Identification

Mark,

There are only a few tell-tale signs to tell what engine option your 1960 came with. The FI air cleaner mounting plate (not just holes) is the way to tell if your car was originally a fuelie. Since you had no plate, the tach is the next indicator of whether your engine had a hydraulic or mechanical cam. Assuming it hasn't been replaced, the 5,500 redline tach indicates a hydraulic cam and the 6,500 a mechanical. Your low-redline tach indicates you had either the 230 base engine or the 245 HP 2x4. A high-redline would indicate a 270 HP.

That is about as definitive as you can get. But there are some non-definitive items that point to a higher or lower HP car. On the higher HP cars, the positrac rear, 4-speed (yours has been replaced) and clutch fan (this option is out with the replaced engine) are more prevalent, as well as no radio and/or no heater. These are pointers, as I say, but not definitive.

So, you can restore your car with either the 230 or 245 restoration engine. In the absence of paperwork, I'd go with your own taste.

Bob