1968 Firebird Question

[Rafterman]

I have a 1968 Firebird w/ a 400 engine and I've got some questions. Does anyone know how to fix the back gas cap cover? It won't fully close. I've been looking at it but can't seem to find the problem. Any suggestions? Also, I need to find window handles for the back seats.

[MrPbody]

I really can't asnwer the question about the fuel door, but I CAN tell you where to find most of what you need for the car!

Ames Performance

Performance years

Both can be found easily "on line". Both are Pontiac-specific outlets and will NOT send you Camaro parts just because they "fit", unlike some of the larger restoration houses.

To learn more about your engine, get Jim Hand's "How to Build Max-performance Pontiac V8s" by SA Designs. This is the only CURRENT study of the ol' Injun. Good info, especially for the street-oriented driver that wants a realiable 11 second car that really IS "streetable". Jim's car is a '71 LeMans wagon at 4,100 lbs. He goes 11.50s on 93 octane with 3.55 gears and a "stock" converter! Many of our (CVMS) Pontiacs are well over 600 HP on 93, and drivable.

If you're anywhere near Richmond, be sure to come to VMP this weekend!

Jim

[79Bandit]

sorry to change the subject but mrpbody do you know what the true rating of a 68 pontiac 400ci was? thanks

[MrPbody]

Which one?

265 HP (2-bbl)
335 (Firebird 4-bbl)
350 (GTO 4-bbl.)
345 (Firebird w/Ram Air)
360 (400 HO, GTO and GP)
365 (GTO Ram Air)

I'm sure I've missed a few... It must be noted here, modern horsepower ratings are measured differently than they were then. The old method was "Gross Brake Horsepower" (at the flywheel, no accessories)

The modern method is "SAE Net Horsepower" (at the tailshaft of the transmission, in gear, all accessories operating)

An old rated 350 HP engine would make somewhere in the 250-260 range, SAE Net.

Jim

Jim