68 Ram Air Hood Pan Alignment
 

I bought a repop 68 Bird Ram Air Hood Pan setup several years ago. It is supposed to be one of the better ones out there, but I can't remember who I bought it from. Looks good to me. Anyway, I just today am installing it on an original GM made 400 hood. I made the strategic cut in the underside hood bracing as planned with no issues.

When I lay it in place to drill the final holes, I noticed there is a bit of slop. I figured that if I align the holes in the pan that go over the speed nuts for the hood inserts, that should be a pretty good indicator that I'm in the right location on the hood before I drill the mounting holes in the braces.

When I do that, I noticed that the hole in the pan for the air cleaner (about 16" around) is approximately 1/2" off center. Is that the way it should be? Some time back I can remember a discussion about Pontiac engines possibly being off center in the engine bay. I'd like to know if this is correct before I drill the mounting holes.

Grandpa always said, measure twice, cut once.... I suppose drilling is the same as cutting when it comes to measuring. :poke:

Old Joe

1/2"may be OK. Who knows? Engine mounts, hood, fenders, may be a little off? I can look at my car tomorrow. Don't think I would sweat it, if its on the hood OK. The engine is off center, but so is the RA upper pan.

When I lined mine up it was all about the best compromise.

http://i1305.photobucket.com/albums/...ps18ksn5z4.jpg
http://i1305.photobucket.com/albums/...ps4gmmvh67.jpg

Thanks for the pictures. I talked with Ram Air Brian, who I bought my setup from. He told me the same thing, so I drilled the holes and now I'm done!

OJ