Augustus

Maybe a silly question, and I talked to someone else in my parts.. and they said that Big Block Chassis are different than Small Block Chassis?

I always thought they were the same?

SHAKERATTLEROLL

They are the same.

joewill

I agree, they are the same... the spring rates may be different tho'....

Augustus

Thanks for putting it straight.. I thought so too.

Sometimes it's best not to listen to some people. They think they know everything but really know sqwat!

rajsid

Is there a difference between a 4 speed's chassis and an automatic's chassis?

SteveG75

Yes, removable tranny crossmember for the automatic transmission. Welded in with a manual.

RobRace10

There is a difference in motor size.

CCrane65

Same ones who still think there were metal Corvettes.

The only difference is in the suspension components.

cc

bb62

The way the engines are positioned, it appears that the big block is far larger than small block (instead of only incrementally larger). The centerline of the crank is higher off the ground for the big block which lends to this illusion.

It's interesting comparing the 435 motor in my 67 with the LT5 in my 95 ZR-1. Those DOHC heads really make the LT5 appear huge, even compared with the big block.

Derrick Reynolds

They did! I bought a 1958 brand new with a 454 and a supercharger and whole body was made of metal! I never should have sold that car....

RobRace10

I measured and the center line of the crank is 2-1/4" higher on the big block as pictured. If I had another engine stand it would be a better comparison, but it is certainly substantially bigger. I can tell you it weighs a lot more! My engine crane can sure feel the difference! That is why the front springs are difference between the SBC and BBC versions.

I'll hook the SBC up to the crane later today and shoot a picture with the two at the same height as that should give it a better perspective.

bb62

Even though I commented on the picture as being somewhat of an illusion, it is a good picture that DOES show that the big block is bigger. The weight differential is about 150 lbs if memory serves me correct.

rajsid

I've heard about this before, but never seen one.
I have also heard that those were Corvairs and not vettes.
Do you have pics of your old car? Just curious to see it...

Derrick Reynolds

Well, see, I HAD pictures, and a bunch of paperwork too, but they were all destroyed in the fire. Tragic story about a pet pig gone wild at the sight of a mouse living under my couch....suffice it to say that we are just happy that everyone got out in time. Well, except for Poo-poo my pet turtle, God rest his soul.....

moosie982

On earlier C2's (pre big block) the front crossmember is different where the lower pully's and balancer are, dont know if early C3's are the same or not, but probably not cause big blocks were always available for them. Peace,,,Moosie

CCrane65

OMG, can you imagine what that would bring at BJ? I think I saw a 1 of none run through there in the past so there was a precedence set.

cc

TheSkunkWorks

Pictorial C2-C3 frame history always worthy of note when these questions arise...

http://www.71corvette.com/frames.html

PKguitar, of course, now someone out there is probably thinking about "cloning" that '58 BB (in 'glass), so if one shows up on feeBay for some ungodly amount we'll be holding you responsible.


TSW

rajsid

really sorry to hear that.

Sully1882

this is just like this patient I had the other day, said his Dad had a 1964 split window Big Block coupe with only around 300 miles on it....

what an idiot!


but they do keep us laughing....


Sully

RagTop69

Yep. I had an 83 Vette that was all aluminum. Well, except for the engine. That was fiberglass. A really rare machine.