So I bought a 1968 C3 convertible that has a rusted frame, but the purchase price included a brand new completely rebuilt frame.

The original car has a 327 I believe and some type of automatic transmission.....but the purchase price also included a 427 and manual 4 speed.


The 427 engine guy is asking questions about intake manifolds and what not and I don't know what to tell him. I believe that the big block motors need a different hood?

I would like to put fuel injection on this, but I am unsure of that whole process, but I need to tell the engine guy something so he can proceed.


I probably have told you nothing of value, but I am looking for direction. I am super handy and mechanical, just don't have any knowledge of what to ask or do.


Thanks,

Mark

 

Not sure on injection and hood clearance needs, but a carburetored performance small block and all big blocks need more hood clearance due to block height and the higher intake manifolds. The very common factory configuration for added hood clearance was the LT-1 / 427/ 454 hood which only offers a couple inches at most. The factory L-88/ZL hood is even higher but these cars were super rare race cars. Both hoods are available in the aftermarket.

check out this forum post and especially the pics for comparison of the two styles:
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...post1595687907

 

Just to add another thought: I think one of the coolest looking configurations is the functional L-88/ZL hoods with the air filter mounted in the hood.

 

I would start with a carb first and get it running so yo ucan enjoy it. FOr and EFI conversion you need a new tank, electric fuel pump and sender, upgraded rubber sections, a new return line on some systems, filters before an dafter the pump, an intake that will work with EFI and fit under the hood with the EFI carb with an intake on it....A stock low profile aluminum dual plane will fit but the EFI may not like it, mine didnt. THeres a lot to bite off for just getting going. Put in the big block, the big block radiator support, and radiator. Make sure all the seals are in place in the air box in front of the radiator. All the right accesory brackets for the alternator and what ever pumps you use and the pulleys. A new exhaust for the big block. Then drive it. You need a big block hood for it at a minimum and they can cost about as much as an L88 hood. Look on craigslist, marketplace and ebay for both. Make sure its a 68 hood and use your original 68 brackets. I 69 hood may work but the latch systems differ so dont mix and match . If you do search the hood stuck closed threads.

Drive it and enjoy it for a summer before going to EFI. You wont gain much for the price and you are better off putting in an overdrive performance wise and fuel wise if you travel on the highway at all or want a really deep rear end gear

 

You can also mod your existing hood. Big block, L88 style or 67 stinger center sections glassed into your hood.