I posted this in the TBI forum a few days ago with no response. I'd be okay with switching EFI methods but I want it to be relatively simple and cost effective (I'd like to avoid dropping 3k on an HSR or something similar)

I'm planning on using vortec heads on the 350 I'm preparing to build, there aren't too many vortec intakes available, especially at reasonable prices. I know I can use a carb intake with an adapter/spacer but I'm worried about the fitment under my hood. I had planned on using an Edelbrock Performer RPM intake with a 1 inch spacer/adaptor. Does anyone know if that will fit or an intake that will definitly fit under my stock Firebird hood?

 

I think GMP makes a TBI vortec manifold...

Yes, they do but it's quiet expensive and it's an original dual plane (idle-5,500).
http://www.jegs.com/i/Chevrolet-Perf...oductId=750534


Doubt you'll clear a stock hood with a spacer. I know the difference of an Performer and Air Gap isn't much more than an inch and that didn't clear a stock hood.

 

Yeah I knew they made that but the price and the pretty limited RPM range makes me think I might as well convert it to tpi since the system itself it lower than a tbi and air cleaner

 

It might fit. Not sure how much taller or shorter a TBI unit is than a carb, but I have a Vic Jr. intake with a Demon carb, and a 3" drop base air filter and it fits under the stock hood. Barely, but it does fit.

 

I'd imagine theyre pretty similar in size. I have a Q-jet here that I could comapre it with. I'm sure if I buy the GMPP intake it'll fit, the problem is the price and the RPM range. A carb intake with a carb will obviously fit, I'm just not sure it will fit with the adaptor I need. Isn't the JR a very tall intake because of the gap?

 

Victor JR with no carb spacer and anything other than a crappy little triangle air cleaner won't clear... ask me about it.

 

How did you reslove that? I remember my dad's 73 Z had that same set up and he had trouble getting it to clear on his hood.

I took so measurements and found out that the TBI set up is about the same height as a Q-jet off of a 71 z (did they change in size over time?) meanign even with a stock carb intake and my 3 inch drop base air cleaner I would still be touching my hood insulation with the wing nut that holds the cleaner down.

I know I could remove the insulation or cut it to fit my air cleaner but I'm sure that excess heat can't be good for my paint...