Bulldog1008

Hi,
Let me first start with yes, I did search threads (I found three) and the internet on this subject. I also talked to a local restorer. What I have come to realize is that I just can't get a straight answer. So, I am looking for the most accurate answer to the following questions:


1. What is the correct Instrument cluster for a 1967 L36 (Tach limit and oil gauge limits)?
2. What 1967 Corvettes had the higher Tach limit and the 80lb oil gauge?
3. Were any 1967 327's equipped with the higher Tach limit and the 80lb oil gauge?


I ask these questions, because I purchased a fixer 67 with a blown NOM (thrown rod). The engine was 68 350. I replaced that engine with a date correct 427 390 HP. The instrument cluster that appears to be original, has the higher Tach limit and the 80lb oil gauge, but I can't believe it was ever a Big Block car, because 1). It has the standard hood, 2). the Hood Support is on the passenger side, 3). It had the smaller radiator. and 4). I just can not believe the previous owner replaced the 427 with a 350; hence, my question number 3.

Maybe the cluster was replaced sometime in its prior history or were any 327's equipped with this configuration?

Any expert advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks so much for looking!

68hemi

What are you calling a "higher Tach limit?" There were 3 I believe red lines available depending on the cam from the factory in both small and big blocks.

Nowhere Man

The L36/L68 cars used the same cluster as a L79. Only the L71 and L88 got the high red line tach and 80# oil gauge.

But none of this really matters as all the gauges are available today and easily changed. What is the date stamp on the back of the cluster

Bulldog1008

Thx. The higher tach limit I am referring to starts at 6500. I don't have it out, so I don't know the date
code. I will check when I remove it. I did buy the attached to fit my 390hp.

68hemi

Well, the cluster you show if from a 1967 probably has had the tach changed since that is the highest red line that came with the solid lifter engines such as the 435 and 430-L88 engines but the oil pressure gauge is only a 60 lb. and would be 80 lb. with the above stated engines.
It has long been argued about what engines came from the factory with the 80 lb. gauge.

Since you have an original small block car with a NOM I would just use what you have. If you are set on having what was correct for a 390 or 400 h.p. engine then you need a 6000 red line and POSSIBLY a 80 lb. gauge.

Bulldog1008

Thank you

Bulldog1008

As an FYI, this what I have in the car currently.

MrTrim

The cluster you purchased looks correct for a L36 car as I have owned several. The cluster that's in your car was probably installed for both the higher red line, if the motor was hot rodded, and the speed warning option. But without knowing the cars history...it's all a guess at best.
Chris

Bulldog1008

Oh good - thank you. Cool that you have owned more than one. This my first and my dream car.