Re: [Amc-list] 70 Donohues

[Frank Swygert <farna@xxxxxxx>]

And even AMC got things wrong, like this one! One of two things happened, or something similar:

1.  The guy/team who wrote or edited the book knew something about TA racing and homologation rules, and knew about the thick walled block, and assumed it needed homologation and wrote it in as such. 

2. AMC originally intended to just make the required number and stop production, then changed their minds. They would have had to install the required number of blocks in Javelins, but not necessarily the Donohue Javelin, and submit paperwork proving they were built and installed. By making the block a readily available replacement part, it didn't have to be installed in anything. They would just have to submit proof that it was a regular production item -- no homologation required. They *might* have had to prove that the required number (or more) were produced, I'm not sure since if it's proven to be a standard production item. AMC had a great concept -- one replacement block, four engines. Just a little machine work required. Perfect for a late model car with a cracked block, say from freezing. Dealer could have a block on the shelf, send the original and new block to a local machine shop, and have a replacement engine in a few days -- probably faster than getting one from 
 Kenosha (no crate engine programs like today!).

These are just educated guesses. It is a fact that a 360 was not a requirement for the Donohue -- it could be ordered with a 360 or a 390 -- the engine wasn't required, and the vast majority of Donohues have the displacement cast into the side of the block. I've only heard of one or two ever found with SR blocks, and there was no way to determine if they were factory installed or replacements -- they had several owners. Since the SR block has a 401 casting it came out AFTER the 1970 Donohue Javelin. It's possible that the SR came first and had the 401 (for the sides) added later though. 

-------------
Date: Thu, 23 Aug 2007 18:18:53 -0500
From: "Armand Eshleman" <aje1@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>

I have an original copy of Performance American Style that I purchased in
1972.
On page eight there is a chart labeled "best blocks".
And I quote from the "book"...............

1970     360      part number 448 8937*

* "A limited number of these special blocks were installed in 1970 Javelins
to meet homologation requirements for SCCA
Trans Am racing. They feature a beefy lower end with provisions for 4-bolt
main caps. The bore is 4.08, but can be over-bored
to a maximum of 4.187 because it has thicker walls than standard 360
blocks".

-- 
Frank Swygert
Publisher, "American Motors Cars" 
Magazine (AMC)
For all AMC enthusiasts
http://farna.home.att.net/AMC.html
(free download available!)


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