Collaborative early a experiment

mopar!!! said
I know it has been a while but I just read your posts. I measured my 66 Barracuda and it is 27 3/8 between the raised places on the inner fenders. Other than there it is 27 3/4. I have been looking at a 340 with the big manifolds for my car and wonder if they will fit.

Well thanks mopar!! I writing all these dimensions in a folder to get a good average. As to whether the big manifolds will fit....Other FABO members say they will. I've saved some of the posts that say if you have manual steering the big manifolds fit. With power steering it requires a little grinding. Then the type of motor mount also makes a difference because old worn out mount tend to let the engine sag causing the driver's manifold to touch the steering box. Tall motor mounts (shumacher or shims) tend to lift the engine a little higher making it easier to clear the steering box. Also it makes a big difference which 340 driver manifold you use. The late 60s 340 driver is designed a little different so it clears the steering box and the steering shaft a little easier. BUT...I've never actually installed the big manifolds myself because I own a 69 Barracuda and do not have access to an Early A. As you can see in these pics, the late 60s 340 driver is shaped different when you compare it to the 70s 340.
The 60s 340 is on the right and the 70s has those heavy ribs where you bolt the heat shield. I'm looking for someone to document the installation process so that other Early A members can have more exhaust manifold options. If the big manifolds actually do fit without any major modifications then more Early A owners will know what they can an can't do to get better flowing cast iron exhaust manifolds.

Thanks for posting the info....

treblig