TH400 Converter Cover for '72

[Roger D.]

Fellas:

Will I lose any points for using the following converter cover (Service Manual calls it the Converter Underpan). A previous ower cut a hole in the bottom of the one on my car.

http://www.ecklers.com/product.asp?pf_id=A5868&dept_id=1851

I have the tranny out right now and it would be a good time to replace it.

Thanks in advance.

Roger

[Joe L.]

Re: TH400 Converter Cover for '72

Fellas:

Will I lose any points for using the following converter cover (Service Manual calls it the Converter Underpan). A previous ower cut a hole in the bottom of the one on my car.

http://www.ecklers.com/product.asp?pf_id=A5868&dept_id=1851

I have the tranny out right now and it would be a good time to replace it.

Thanks in advance.

Roger

Roger----


The original transmission underpan for your application was GM #3952661. That part was discontinued from SERVICE in December, 1983 and replaced by GM #342467. I expect the one in your link is the 342467 since that one is still available from GM.

I have a 342467 around here but I don't have a 3952661. I don't know what the difference is between them (although I've always wondered). I'm sure there is some difference, though. Hopefully, if there is enough difference to discern and, consequently, result in a points deduction, the judges that would impose said deduction will know the difference and report here.

[Patrick H.]

Re: TH400 Converter Cover for '72

$9 less through Summit Racing, FYI.

[Roger D.]

Re: TH400 Converter Cover for '72

Thanks guys for the info. I would get a point deduction anyway since there is hole in it. Can't imagine why someone would want to cut a hole in the converter cover.

Regards,
Roger

[Harmon C.]

Re: TH400 Converter Cover for '72

If their is no line item for the cover even with a hole it may be overlooked. The 73's I got Duntov's with had no line item for the transmission wich would include the cover. Our 72 chassis expert should speak up.

[Patrick H.]

Re: TH400 Converter Cover for '72

If their is no line item for the cover even with a hole it may be overlooked. The 73's I got Duntov's with had no line item for the transmission wich would include the cover. Our 72 chassis expert should speak up.

The problem is, who admits to having an automatic and paying close attention to the transmission inspection cover?

Most of the chassis judges I know own 4 speed cars. So, the product knowledge is a bit thin. I find it's the same with base motor cars - I've seen "misses" in judging because the judge wasn't familiar with a non-LT-1/non-big block car.

Patrick

[Joel A.]

Re: TH400 Converter Cover for '72

Roger, the "dust cover" has a small hole in the bottom of it anyway, for drainage. I've never seen a Judge that was thin enough to crawl far enough under the car to even see the hole that's there from the factory...
There are a few differences in the shape of the dust covers, depending on starter location(flywheel ring-gear tooth count/diameter), and some are plastic, rather than sheet metal. Probably any sheet metal cover you get that actually fits will be fine, as long as it looks like the original one, minus the large hole...

[Joe L.]

Re: TH400 Converter Cover for '72

The problem is, who admits to having an automatic and paying close attention to the transmission inspection cover?

Most of the chassis judges I know own 4 speed cars. So, the product knowledge is a bit thin. I find it's the same with base motor cars - I've seen "misses" in judging because the judge wasn't familiar with a non-LT-1/non-big block car.

Patrick

Patrick-----

Part of the problem might relate to the fact that base motor, low option cars have become rare as many have been converted to higher hp, well-optioned cars. So, the once rare cars are now common and the once common cars are now rare.

As you know, I even have one of these (although not converted in a manner or configuration to fool any knowledgeable individual or for the purpose of increasing the car's value). However, sooner or later mine will be converted back to its original configuration.

In my mind, a true Corvette aficionado appreciates, is interested in becoming knowledgeable regarding, and studies all Corvettes, not just certain "rare", "iconic", "high dollar", "reputedly fast", and "charismatic" models and options. I would hope that judges fall into the category of aficionados.

[Phil D.]

Re: TH400 Converter Cover for '72

Joel, Roger's dust cover "hole" is generally rectangular and located between the factory drain hole and the starter, in line with the teeth on the ring-gear. I postulated that a previous mechanic used a screwdriver in that hole as a lever to either turn the engine by small degrees or to immobilize the crank to torque a pulley bolt. Thought about welding up the hole and fixing it like a body repair but for $45.00 if it don't count points, just order a new one.

[Roger D.]

Re: TH400 Converter Cover for '72

Patrick-----

Part of the problem might relate to the fact that base motor, low option cars have become rare as many have been converted to higher hp, well-optioned cars. So, the once rare cars are now common and the once common cars are now rare.

As you know, I even have one of these (although not converted in a manner or configuration to fool any knowledgeable individual or for the purpose of increasing the car's value). However, sooner or later mine will be converted back to its original configuration.

In my mind, a true Corvette aficionado appreciates, is interested in becoming knowledgeable regarding, and studies all Corvettes, not just certain "rare", "iconic", "high dollar", "reputedly fast", and "charismatic" models and options. I would hope that judges fall into the category of aficionados.

I really love the way you put that Joe... very eloquent. I had to wait 50 years (I just turned 51) to get my classic Corvette and although I'd rather it be of a more "desireable" configuration, I still love it just the same!!!

[Patrick H.]

Re: TH400 Converter Cover for '72

However, sooner or later mine will be converted back to its original configuration.

It's gotta first be finished into it's recently intended configuration.

At least I know where the engine is for when it has to go back to its original configuration.

Patrick

[Joe L.]

Re: TH400 Converter Cover for '72

It's gotta first be finished into it's recently intended configuration.

At least I know where the engine is for when it has to go back to its original configuration.

Patrick

Patrick------


I'll show you where all the other stuff is, too, just in case "something interrupts" my ability to get everything back the way it was.

[Patrick H.]

Re: TH400 Converter Cover for '72

Patrick------


I'll show you where all the other stuff is, too, just in case "something interrupts" my ability to get everything back the way it was.

Gotcha.

Just let me know when I make my trip west....

Patrick