Fuel economy and a 283

[harland]

I have had my engine gone through as part of the cosmestic restoration-hardened valve seats,etc. At the advice of my restorer we swapped the 4.11 posi rear for a 3.31 or something like that -Gary called the 4.11 a 'beer joint to beer joint' ratio. I recognize that 1961 Corvettes aren't usually daily drivers, but I would like to maximize mpg like everyone else. Any thoughts from those with experience? higher octane fuel, special exhaust system, easy on the gas, of course, best carb to use? thanks, Harland

 

[JohnZ]

Carb doesn't matter, good tune-up and easy on the gas are all that matters, short of an overdrive transmission for highway economy.

 

[harland]

thanks for the info on tires and fuel economy. regards, Harland

 

[Hib Halverson]

I have had my engine gone through as part of the cosmestic restoration-hardened valve seats,etc. At the advice of my restorer we swapped the 4.11 posi rear for a 3.31 or something like that -Gary called the 4.11 a 'beer joint to beer joint' ratio. I recognize that 1961 Corvettes aren't usually daily drivers, but I would like to maximize mpg like everyone else. Any thoughts from those with experience? higher octane fuel, special exhaust system, easy on the gas, of course, best carb to use? thanks, Harland

I'm going to assume that keeping this 61 stock is not a requirement. With that...

The octane of the fuel will not impact gas mileage significantly, so use whatever octane is just enough to keep the engine out of detonation.

I'm not sure what you mean by a "special exhaust" system but a low restriction exhaust would help mileage provided, once you have it on the car, you optimize the fuel and spark for it.

The best carb for gas mileage on that engine would be a Rochester Quadrajet which is properly calibrated for the engine and duty cycle.

Lastly, the change to the 3.31 axle will have the greatest impact of all.

 

[harland]

thanks for the insight. I hope that the spooky talk of $4. per gallon fuel doesn't become a reality. I really feel more 'pain' for the poor rural folks with long commutes driving older , gas guzzlers and who can't afford a fuel efficient model. I don't think my Corvette driving on a nice day will break my allowance, and maybe the 283, the 3.31 rear, a light foot operated by a nearly 61 year old man no longer ruled by testosterone, will help me stay in the 20 mpg range. The former owner said he got this mpg with the posi rear, so who knows. regards, Harland

 

[Kid_Again]

.....testosterone knows no limits

...unfortunately, neither does estrogenhnoes