Ignition shielding

[Lincoln S.]

Ok folks, here's another question from the Corvette newcomer!
What is the purpose of the extensive ignition system shielding as found on the mid-year cars. Is it to protect against ignition system interference to other electrical systems on the car, protection against moisture, aesthetics, or maybe a combination of all of the above. Thanks, Lincoln

[Jim T.]

Re: Ignition shielding

One way to look at it is that generally Corvettes without a radio from the factory did not get the shielding.

[Jack H.]

Re: Ignition shielding

The shielding was installed to thwart radio interference. Normal vehicles had bodies made from stamped steel panels. That acted as a Gaussian shield to stop/reduce the amount of stray radio frequency noise (RF) that was unintentionally 'broadcast' from the engine's ignition system that might interfere with the radio's normal reception.

You'll also note that ALL Corvettes placed the radio antenna all the way back on the rear of the car while passenger cars and trucks saved a bit of $$$ by reducing the length of the radio antenna lead-in cable by mounting the antenna on the front, RH, fender: adjacent to the engine compartment...

The Corvette RF shielding IS a major PITA when it comes to doing tuneup work. That's the reason many of these cars 'lost' their shielding components along the prior ownership chain.

[Lincoln S.]

Re: Ignition shielding

Thanks Jack for your reply. My first guess for the ignition shielding was RF interference (I'm a ham radio operator so I am familiar with the problems associated with it). Thanks for your insight, much appreciated.
Lincoln