Air Cleaner Assembly

[Donald H.]

I need an air cleaner for my 1960 270HP car. According to the TIM & JG, the early 1960 should have a one-piece non-serviceable type. I will likely end up with a Vette Products of Michigan part since I understand that they are about the only manufacturer of these now.

I have two questions:

In the case of the air cleaner, what is considered an early car, i.e. what is the cutoff date for early versus late 60 builds? My 60 is serial number 101322 and according to the info I have found, that translates to a mid November 59 build.

Next question is since I am going to end up with a reproduction air cleaner anyway, does it really matter whether I get a repro one-piece or two-piece unit even if my car is considered a early 60? Or, would I get partical credit for originality with a one-piece repro and loose all 27 points with two piece?

Thanks,
Don

[Joe M.]

Re: Air Cleaner Assembly

Donald, as you probably know, the 1958-1960 Judging Guide simply says "During Early 1960." I don't know what else NCRS judges use, but I am going to find out in 4 weeks at the Lone Star Regional. The current 2 piece repro cover is still incorrect in several ways, but I purchased one anyway. The cover has the correct number of louvers and it is made of aluminum, that is about the only two correct aspect of it. Louvers are too far apart, spark arrestor material is wrong, incorrect 2 piece grommet holding arrestor plate to the cover, and cover finish is too shiny. I am surprised that judges award any points for this inaccurate repro. It is unfortunate that the manufacturer will not retool to make a good repro, but there are economics involved with this that we don't know about.

The 1960 AIM page that shows the air cleaner shows the date the change was approved, but there is no way to determine how many one piece units remained and were installed before the 2 piece units arrived on the assembly line. That is probably why the judging guide is silent on this.

Only cars with documented original air cleaner covers could provide a rough timeline as to when the change occurred.

[Donald H.]

Re: Air Cleaner Assembly

Yea, I'm sure mine is an early car. It has the vin on the driver side door post instead of the steering column.

I would prefer to buy the serviceable air cleaner, but will buy the one that has the least hit from judging.

Anyone know?

[Philip P.]

Re: Air Cleaner Assembly

I am in the process of restoring a single four barrel air cleaner, found an original that had been left to the elements..not for the faint of heart, the aluminum is a real treat to work with.
Phil