1969 Chevelle SS 396 L78 375 Horse.

SUPERSPORT · #1 09-12-2007, 07:33 AM

I am trying to clarify this 1969 Chevelle SS as a factory L78 Car. It is believed to be. I suspect it is, but wanted clarification from the pros. Here are some photos for the experts. The current motor is NOM but a 375 horse is available that my be the original? Thanks!

Any help would be appreciated!

**Woj** · #2 09-12-2007, 07:10 PM

The best indicator of a possible 375 hp 69 Chevelle is a single 3/8" fuel line from gas tank to the fuel pump. The cowl tag and vin provide no sound information regarding the installed engine. The famous "L" on the trim tag seems to indicate a big block car for 69 Chevelle (not all plants used it). You may also want to check the rear end code, if stock, there were standard rear ends for each engine in 69 Chevelle. I don't know off hand what the 375 hp rear was. The original owner may have ordered something different, in which case this wouldn't help. Your 6000 redline tach is a good indicator. What transmission do you have? If it is a TH400 and it has the CX transmission, that would have been attached to the 375 hp engine.

The best indicator would be an original build sheet or protect-o-plate, those items would verify VIN and engine.

Hope this helps.

Phil Woj.

Keith Tedford · #3 09-12-2007, 08:50 PM

If the engine and transmission are original to the car, they will have the partial VIN stamped on them. The L78 cars could be ordered with a fair variety of gear ratios. Ours has the "KK" 4.10 positraction unit. That rearend might hint at an L78 car although it doesn't mean a lot. People ordering the solid lifter engines had more than just taking Grandma to the grocery store in mind.

SUPERSPORT · #4 09-13-2007, 02:53 AM

We have verified it is an original L78 car with a FRESH 70 396 325 horse! Thanks for the input! Any idea on Value frame off resto. 4 speed, original body panels! Runs looks and drives NEW.

**Rainer** · #5 09-13-2007, 08:50 AM

[ QUOTE ]
We have verified it is an original L78 car with a FRESH 70 396 325 horse!

[/ QUOTE ]

Base 396 in 1970 is 350hp - is that what you meant?

SUPERSPORT · #6 09-13-2007, 07:26 PM

Yes that is what I meant. Thanks

**Mr70** · #7 09-13-2007, 07:31 PM

Since you asked us how,can we ask you how you verified it was originally a factory L-78 equipped Chevelle?

Keith Tedford · #8 09-13-2007, 08:32 PM

The under engine photo shows the oil sender unit at the front of the oil gallery. Although it is not correct, it is where the sender should have been in the first place. You want to know what your lowest pressure is, not the highest. Secondly, why do so many paint the inner part of the fender black. Looks ok but I've never seen a factory paint job like that on a '69. Just curious.