Re: 1956 Clipper Hot Rod

Posted by BH On 2010/1/6 10:33:32

Al -

IMHO, what the parts book refers to as "splashers" (starting in Gr. 30.9874), mounted left and right and top and bottom of the radiator, actually serve as an excellent system of baffles or deflectors that direct plenty of air into the engine compartment. Of course, the primary intent of that is for cooling.

However, I don't believe that making those hood scoops functional will accomplish much for engine performance unless you're gonna fabricate corresponding ductwork to direct that extra air into the carbs. Yet, I couldn't bring myself to cut up one of those rare (read as "high-dollar") 2x4 air cleaners, which means more fabrication work (and $$$) for a custom air cleaner.

Back in the day, my dad had his Exec (with the 352 mill, a single Carter WCFB, and the air cleaner with a single inlet) up to 110MPH, with the needle still climbing - though he didn't dare take his eyes off of the road (US 19) beyond that point. He had done nothing to that car other than a little fine-tuning to get that level of performance - no mods. Clearly, the Jr. chassis, with its shorter wheelbase, afforded some weight-savings, but your car has the added benefit of the 2x4 set-up - provided the carbs are properly jetted and tuned for the 352 mill.

Personally, I'd get more value from the effort put into coming up with the prop rod and details (or fabricating a reasonable facsimile thereof) to go with that 55 Caribbean hood.