Engine block codes
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 24
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From: Cornwall NY
Engine block codes
I have a 78 Corvette with the Engine block code CUT which is for a L48w/automatic Transmission. This car has a 4 speed. Is there another way to verify if this was done at the dealer after it was bought?? The car does not have any obvious alterations to show the change from auto to manual.
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 229
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From: Grants Pass Oregon
The '75 vette " CUT " was a 350 4-speed. But, I would say someone has changed it to 4-speed. Can you tell what year/make your trans is ?
Last edited by 78 silver 78; Nov 5, 2010 at 10:24 PM. Reason: add on
Race Director
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 12,596
Likes: 3,082
From: Shamong, NJ
How is your trans crossmember attached? Automatic cars had a bolted in crossmember, while 4 speed cars had a non removable, welded in crossmember.
What about your radiator, OEM automatic radiators had fittings in the radiator for the trans cooler lines, the 4 speed radiators didn't. What about provision for the auto kick down? If my memory's correct, 78 autos had a vacuum kick down for the "passing gear", is there any indication that this equipment was or is still there?
There are some other give aways for auto equipted cars, but the ones I've given you are the most easily identified. This should give you somewhere to start.
What about your radiator, OEM automatic radiators had fittings in the radiator for the trans cooler lines, the 4 speed radiators didn't. What about provision for the auto kick down? If my memory's correct, 78 autos had a vacuum kick down for the "passing gear", is there any indication that this equipment was or is still there?
There are some other give aways for auto equipted cars, but the ones I've given you are the most easily identified. This should give you somewhere to start.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 5,228
Likes: 895
From: Myrtle Beach SC
I have a 78 Corvette with the Engine block code CUT which is for a L48w/automatic Transmission. This car has a 4 speed. Is there another way to verify if this was done at the dealer after it was bought?? The car does not have any obvious alterations to show the change from auto to manual.
I highly doubt a dealer would have changed it out after it was bought. Replacement motors would not have the OEM engine broadcast code, the CUT code. You have an original motor so your working to resolve whether it belongs to this particular 78 Corvette. Also, you can order a copy of the original invoice through the GM invoice service that will show how the Corvette was delivered...four-speed (M20) or automatic (M38). Do a search and find the vendor for the invoice service...its been talked to death.
The Four Speeds of 1978
