Re: Black 396 air cleaner lid
 

The '65 Corvette 396 (L-78) had a black air cleaner lid, and it was the ONLY 60's Corvette that did. There was no such thing as a '66 Corvette 396; '66-'69 Corvette big-blocks were all 427's, and they all had chrome lids.

https://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/imag...lins/beers.gif

Re: Black 396 air cleaner lid
 

JohnZ is correct. My dad has a 65 396 Vette. The black air cleaner cover really contrasts well against the chrome of the valve covers and ignition shielding.

Re: Black 396 air cleaner lid
 

[ QUOTE ]
I recently purchased this air cleaner http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayIS...=STRK:MEWNX:IT. I am sure that the base is original but would like to know how to determine if the lid is correct. Thank you for any info. Tom.

[/ QUOTE ] Post a picture of the underside and a better picture of the top side. My guess is that it is original but not sure of the application.

Re: Black 396 air cleaner lid
 

Sorry,my last reply shoulda said the P&A 1969 parts book dated 3/1/69 for Vette/Impala/Truck that calls out CHROME for $8.15 on page 3-39.
Based on what John said,that makes sense,as they were likely reflecting the latest design which woulda been the chrome finish for the 427cid. 66 Vette.
Maybe there was more of a design difference with the #356 vs. #832 lid then just chrome vs. black,based on their different part #'s,specific model applications & prices shown...while both offered at the exact same time too.
I'd like to see these two lids next to eachother.

Re: Black 396 air cleaner lid
 

Some pic's of lids.

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