'69 COPO Camaro Cowl Air Cleaner

[scuncio]

Last weekend I bought a Camaro from a guy who used to own a documented RS COPO years ago. He had installed the original cowl induction air cleaner from the COPO on the car I purchased, and I'd like to understand exactly what I have. It appears to be an assembly line correct flat-bottom base with an incorrect chromed open element air cleaner lid, but with the correct hood sealing flange. Obviously it's a major bummer that the snorkel was hacked but I'm guessing that can be replaced by someone who knows what he's doing.

The decal was a new repop, something the previous owner installed a couple years ago.

Any advice would be much appreciated!

[L78steve]

I have a snorkel removed from a over the counter replacement assembly if your interested.

[scuncio]

PM sent

[L78M22Rag]

Neat piece! Sorry I can’t add any comments... but I’d sure like to hear more about the Camaro you bought!

[William]

In production, L34, L35, L78 & both COPOs used the #6485235 air cleaner assembly. Also used on Z/28 with an extension not used on 396/427. So it is not particularly rare.

Sometime after July '69, the base was revised with a bead to raise the lid for better air flow. Some cars built after that time have the revised base. GMPD serviced the 2nd design #6485235 well into the '80s with another revision; a vent tube with 2 45º bends to clear a Holley double-pumper. GMPD also serviced the seal flange but mostly the version used on Chevelles, notched to clear a vacuum pod used on A/C cars.

Your unit has an original flange. The flat-bottom base is a plus but needs a little work and a lid as noted and is rusty. I suspect that isn't the original seal. Were it complete and in excellent original condition, it would be a great find.

Working against you, the flat bottom ZL2 air cleaner, lid, flange and seal are nicely reproduced for about $250.

[Mr70]

Does the rubber seal seam have tape on it?
If so,please show it close up & from different angles..

[L78steve]

Originally Posted by William

In production, L34, L35, L78 & both COPOs used the #6485235 air cleaner assembly. Also used on Z/28 with an extension not used on 396/427. So it is not particularly rare.

Sometime after July '69, the base was revised with a bead to raise the lid for better air flow. Cars built after that time should have the revised base. GMPD serviced the 2nd design #6485235 well into the '80s with another revision; a vent tube with 2 45º bends to clear a Holley double-pumper. GMPD also serviced the seal flange but mostly the version used on Chevelles, notched to clear a vacuum pod used on A/C cars.

Your unit has an original flange. The flat-bottom base is a plus but needs a little work and a lid as noted and is rusty. I suspect that isn't the original seal. Were it complete and in excellent original condition, it would be a great find.

Working against you, the flat bottom ZL2 air cleaner, lid, flange and seal are nicely reproduced for about $250.

Not to start an argument but I believe the raised bead on the floor of the base is for improved sealing.
I cannot see how that would improve airflow.
Granted the repop is nice but its still a repop.

[L78steve]

Does the bottom side of the lid have the silk screening?

[scuncio]

Thanks everyone, very helpful. No one is hurting my feelings with candid commentary - I will be looking to sell this to recoup some $ from the car purchase so I’m trying to understand if it’s more sensible to sell it as-is or pay to have it restored.

Steve - yes, the underside of the lid does have the original silk screening.

[William]

Originally Posted by L78steve

Not to start an argument but I believe the raised bead on the floor of the base is for improved sealing.
I cannot see how that would improve airflow.

I believe under certain conditions there was an air flow restriction with the original flat-bottom. Elevating the lid would eliminate the problem.

I have had several flat bottoms and the element sealed to the base just fine.