period correct tunnel rams
 

Can someone post information on dated tunnel rams? For instance what might have been used in the late 60's, early to mid 70's, etc.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Edelbrock TR-2X purchased new in '69 or '70. [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif[/img]

http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j3...te/photo12.jpg


Maybe it was '71..........can't remember..... [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/rolleyes.gif[/img]

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Cool Picture. Edelbrock made one before that -plenum was one giant square box.

Offenhauser and Weiand also made TR's in 1970-1973 era.

Most came out in the early 1970's.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

&quot;Bread Box&quot; version?

I learned this term from my own TR request thread:

https://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/ubbt...413&amp;page=1

I'm looking for a vintage TR1 or a TR2.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Verne_Frantz</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Edelbrock TR-2X purchased new in '69 or '70. [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif[/img]

http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j3...te/photo12.jpg


Maybe it was '71..........can't remember..... [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/rolleyes.gif[/img] </div></div>

This is a cool intake. Only one I am aware of that has different port sizes per runner- see pic.

Here are two decent threads talking about vintage Tunnel Ram

http://www.stevesnovasite.com/forums...d.php?t=171643

https://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/ubbt...2&amp;page=all

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY</div><div class="ubbcode-body">&quot;Bread Box&quot; version?


I'm looking for a vintage TR1 or a TR2. </div></div>

Marlin, Those bread box TR1's were absolutely horrendous on the street and it takes someone with experience to set one up right and even then it won't run as good as a TR with a smaller plenum. Even Edelbrock pitched it after one year of production and went to the TR-2X and discontinued the TR1. It was a poor design to begin with.

A friend of mine put one on his 70's style street rod he was building and it washed down his cylinder walls after a summer of driving and he and his friend who set it up have been setting up these systems since the mid 70's. He wanted a challenge..and it beat him.

I would suggest the Edelbrock TR-2X, or better yet the Weiand or an Offenhauser-both have a smaller plenum than the TR-2X and are very early 1970's correct. Offenhauser had a very good reputation for nice running street TR's back in the 70's because they had the best plenum shape.

Here is the engine in my 289 Mustang- Offenhauser with 2 Holley 390's-the pre emission carbs w/o all the smog junk on them.Disregard the date on the photo-it was not set the day I photographed it.

http://i1116.photobucket.com/albums/...trengine-1.jpg

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Ok, I like the 'Bread Box' look - but have heard about the washing down of the cylinder walls. I don't want to deal with that as it would certainly take all the fun out of this whole endeavor!

What are your thoughts on this one?

Offy Turbo Thrust

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Your engine looks great.
Does anyone know the time frame on the two pictured?

Don't worry about Stunkards picture of the Camaro. He won't mind.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Marlin it is period correct. All the Offenhauser TR's were available in 1970 and they never changed the design nor the lettering etc.
You can still buy them brand new from Offenhauser through Summit.

Most people who built these back in the day like Offenhauser best on the street-it was the right combination of plenums shape and size.

Couple hints-don't run a radical cam with a TR on the street. You need a cam that produces the most vacuum as possible to suck down that fuel air mixture. I have an R/V/performance style cam in my car from comp cams who helped me build the engine on paper.

Run the heaviest flywheel you can find and the highest gear ratio for torque at low rpm's and street cruising.

Run an electric fuel pump to at least start the car to prime the fuel bowls upon startup. I'm going to run a vintage Holley along with a mechanical pump and once it starts shut ff the electric pump.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Chandler</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Your engine looks great.
Does anyone know the time frame on the two pictured?

Don't worry about Stunkards picture of the Camaro. He won't mind.

</div></div>

1974 ish...

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Thanks - you are correct, my research just showed that it came out in 2/70. So, I think I might have found the best combo for both period correct and streetability!

Thinking 450cfm Holleys?

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

The TR2 can be a challenge, but they can be made to run and run well if you are willing to tackle the learning curve. I've actually spoken to the Grump about it and other TR details. Growing up with my Pop- &quot;Plowman&quot; I've had one of the best resources a guy could want for running dual quads. Now getting input from Grumpy and then those two together talking multiple carbeuration- a guy's head could start spinning.

http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/w...7/GrumpRam.jpg

You've got to restrict the liquid line on the idel circuit AND you have to run an CD ignition. I've always run MSD (though I'm gonna try to do it with and older Grant box on my sister's 69 Nova).

They did offer an intermediate plate for the TR2 to help remove some plenum volume and extend the intake runners. This was a to help make it be more street friendly. We've got two of these intakes, one has the plate.

http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/w...am/TRparts.jpg

You can also get creative and kock the plenum down. Here is an example of that.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Thanks. The 4150 TR in the top picture is on Ebay right now. I like the way it looks but I will stick with my Edelbrock.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: whitetop</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Chandler</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Your engine looks great.
Does anyone know the time frame on the two pictured?

Don't worry about Stunkards picture of the Camaro. He won't mind.

</div></div>

1974 ish... </div></div>

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

What would have been typical mid to late 70's?

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: pxtx</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The TR2 can be a challenge, but they can be made to run and run well if you are willing to tackle the learning curve. I've actually spoken to the Grump about it and other TR details.

</div></div>

Paul, there is a big difference between the street and strip with the TR2. They were designed for very high rpm usage.
Marlin needs something just to scoot around the street with that is streetable and no hassles.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Typical where, street or strip? Which build theme do you identify with more? Really there are two camps with this. There are the guys who choose to drive cars with race car parts on the street (and either address the compromises or learn to live wiht certain aspects) and there are those who want that strip look without the compromised street manner.

I think the Offy did a great job with their Tunnel Rams featuring a divided plenum and street friendly runner combo. They most likley were not selling any to racers for the strip, and plenty to those who wanted to simulate that feel.

Personally I would never run a TR with a mild cam. I think it would be a major departure from the theme of the cars I like t build.

As far as a carb choice, I like vacuum secondaries. I would start out with a Holley List 1850 which is a 600 cfm carb and very plentiful. I've never been able to tune a par of 390's or 450's to run nearly as good as those 600's after being modified. Heck you might even be able to run a pair of 750's.

Dave is right, an electric fuel pump is a must. I used to run both, but later ditched my mechanical.

Don't even attempt this without a set of 4 series gears out back.

Dave, I'll admit I really don't know what Marlin wants to do. Fact is, it is Benjamin's car so I wonder what he wants. A young kid might accept a little more street compromise- maybe not. Depends on type of man he is growing up to be. You bring some valid points and expereince to the thread- no doubt. It will be up to those guys to choose what they want to build.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

I'm not trying to identify with a certain theme. I'm just interested in the history of the parts used in those days. I was worried about Saturday morning cartoons back in those days, so I wasn't paying attention..lol

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Here is mine for my car.
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y29...Tunnelram1.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y29...5/DSC_0734.jpg

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

That looks like the Weiand TR as seen in Two Lane Blacktop. Probably the epitome of Tunnel Ram and what it means to me. Pair of 660's on it with a secondary metering block kit. Very Nice!

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: pxtx</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Typical where, street or strip? Which build theme do you identify with more? Really there are two camps with this. There are the guys who choose to drive cars with race car parts on the street (and either address the compromises or learn to live wiht certain aspects) and there are those who want that strip look without the compromised street manner.

I think the Offy did a great job with their Tunnel Rams featuring a divided plenum and street friendly runner combo. They most likley were not selling any to racers for the strip, and plenty to those who wanted to simulate that feel.

Personally I would never run a TR with a mild cam. I think it would be a major departure from the theme of the cars I like t build.

As far as a carb choice, I like vacuum secondaries. I would start out with a Holley List 1850 which is a 600 cfm carb and very plentiful. I've never been able to tune a par of 390's or 450's to run nearly as good as those 600's after being modified. Heck you might even be able to run a pair of 750's.

Dave is right, an electric fuel pump is a must. I used to run both, but later ditched my mechanical.

Don't even attempt this without a set of 4 series gears out back.

Dave, I'll admit I really don't know what Marlin wants to do. Fact is, it is Benjamin's car so I wonder what he wants. A young kid might accept a little more street compromise- maybe not. Depends on type of man he is growing up to be. You bring some valid points and expereince to the thread- no doubt. It will be up to those guys to choose what they want to build.



</div></div>

Ha! I don't know what I'm doing! [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/grin.gif[/img] But, I know what I want: A cool Day 2 type of look, but with street manners. I don't want a racecar on the street. Benjamin just turned 10, so he has no idea what I'm planning - but I see the look on his face when a car idles past with a dual quad TR sticking outta the hood. [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/naughty.gif[/img] So, he's gonna like this car for sure when we finally finish it.

I'm planning to run this combo:

- 427 BBC
- 10.5:1 CR
- Steel Crank / rods
- Oval port heads
- 550/550 cam
- M20 trans
- 3.55 posi

Toppped with either a Torker 2-0 single holley, or that Offenhauser Turbo Port intake linked above.

I live close enough to pxtx and his Pop to get their help setting it all up! The goal is have fun with a cool street car.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

With that criteria, I would say the Offy TP Tunnel Ram is a perfect fit.

In the 1980's my uncle put a TR on a street rod with a similar set-up. It has been the most street friendly dual quad car in the club and is still running strong to this day. You could dive it in traffic tomorrow, then blast off to Columbus without a hitch. Vac advance distributor with a special tune. The street rod is a 42 Ford pickup. It's not a race car, but has turned 14's at the drags.

My personal hang-up is having a TR equipped car only running 14's.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: pxtx</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
As far as a carb choice, I like vacuum secondaries. I would start out with a Holley List 1850 which is a 600 cfm carb and very plentiful. I've never been able to tune a par of 390's or 450's to run nearly as good as those 600's after being modified. Heck you might even be able to run a pair of 750's.




</div></div>

My 390's have the vacuum secondaries and I bought the Holley vacuum balance tube kit that ties both carbs in together so they open both at the same time.My car had 600 on it when I got it and they were just too plain big for a little 289.

I'm more show than go and just want something that runs decent and is not stumbling on the street and is not backfiring and embarrasing me at a cruise..

I followed my build from a indepth Car Craft article back in the late 70's that showed how to build a TR for the street-and that is what they recommended- a r/v/performnace style cam. One of the best articles ever.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: pxtx</div><div class="ubbcode-body">That looks like the Weiand TR as seen in Two Lane Blacktop. Probably the epitome of Tunnel Ram and what it means to me. Pair of 660's on it with a secondary metering block kit. Very Nice! </div></div>

Good eye Paul and yes they are 660 with a secondary metering block. I also have a set of 4223-S 850's if the 1320 cfm isn't enough for the future engine.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Something I'm wondering about on this TR always being called the offical Two Lane Blacktop TR....
If you look at the picture of the one from the movie, it appears to have a plate and looks like it's a three piece TR? Looks a little different from the one posted.


<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 396L35</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Here is mine for my car.
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y29...Tunnelram1.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y29...5/DSC_0734.jpg </div></div>

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Chandler</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Something I'm wondering about on this TR always being called the offical Two Lane Blacktop TR....
If you look at the picture of the one from the movie, it appears to have a plate and looks like it's a three piece TR? Looks a little different from the one posted.


<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 396L35</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Here is mine for my car.
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y29...Tunnelram1.jpg
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y29...5/DSC_0734.jpg </div></div> </div></div>

Chandler you are correct and I have the other three piece top that you are referring too but I haven't had time to switch them out yet.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 396L35</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Here is mine for my car.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y29...5/DSC_0734.jpg</div></div>


Um, I want a Big Block engine sitting inside my house as decoration too [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/biggthumpup.gif[/img]

Tommy [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/3gears.gif[/img]

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Thanks for the info Mark.
I didn't know there was a different 4150 top for that intake. I imagine the more common top, like you have pictured would be more suited for the street, given the smaller plenum volume.
I've got one of those older TR's that has the &quot;say why-and&quot; cast into it. Now I'll be looking for one of those tops. Probably should look for a needle in a hay stack first.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Here's one I picked up a few years ago. Prices got cheap the last day of the swap meet and I got this for 75.00, complete with linkage.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

How about for a sbc same deal?

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Same deal for what?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: brent396</div><div class="ubbcode-body">How about for a sbc same deal? </div></div>

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Chandler</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Here's one I picked up a few years ago. Prices got cheap the last day of the swap meet and I got this for 75.00, complete with linkage. </div></div>

I like this and I am looking for one of these to add too my tunnel ram collection. As for the say-why-and intake top they are out there and I have found two to switch out the tops leaving the carbs in tacked. The base of my intake is an older say-why-and but that top was switched out for the street like you mentioned.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

I may have two of the Edelbrocks with the Dom. top. There is one on Ebay also, but I think one of the linkage tabs has been cut off. If I understand you correctly, you have two of the tops like on the Two Lane Blacktop TR?
Thanks for all the post from everyone.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 396L35</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Chandler</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Here's one I picked up a few years ago. Prices got cheap the last day of the swap meet and I got this for 75.00, complete with linkage. </div></div>

I like this and I am looking for one of these to add too my tunnel ram collection. As for the say-why-and intake top they are out there and I have found two to switch out the tops leaving the carbs in tacked. The base of my intake is an older say-why-and but that top was switched out for the street like you mentioned. </div></div>

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Okay what is a good tunel ram to run on a small block chevy period Correct

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Okay. I imagine any of the ones being discussed. But I will say I agree with Whitetop on TR design. Smaller plenum and runner length equals higher velocity and vac. signal.



<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: brent396</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Okay what is a good tunel ram to run on a small block chevy period Correct </div></div>

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Chandler</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I may have two of the Edelbrocks with the Dom. top. There is one on Ebay also, but I think one of the linkage tabs has been cut off. If I understand you correctly, you have two of the tops like on the Two Lane Blacktop TR?
Thanks for all the post from everyone.</div></div>

That would be correct and they can be switched out by taking off the 6 bolts to separate the two halves.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: brent396</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Okay what is a good tunel ram to run on a small block chevy period Correct </div></div>

Edelbrock TR-1X, Weiand(early style) or Offenhauser. They all came out about the same time give or take 6 months. Weiand and Offenhauser are better for the street though.


TR-1X top, Offenhauser on the bottom.

http://i1116.photobucket.com/albums/...S/moroso70.jpg

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Thanks Guys for the info.Orange Headers must been a thing back then

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Here is some period tunnel rams.

#1 is a 1960's big block Chevrolet square port Weiand &quot;Say Why-And&quot;. It is a 3 piece manifold. The upper lid can be removed in favor of something else.

#2 is a 1970's big block Chevrolet square port Weiand manifold for two Dominators. I also had the spare to to run smaller carbs as well.

#3 is an early 1970's big block Chevrolet square port Edelbrock TR2X.

#4 is a 1960's small block Chevrolet Weiand &quot;Say Why-And&quot; 1x4.

#5 is the same as above, only smoothed and chromed.

#6 is an Edelbrock TR1Y for small block Chevrolet early 1970's.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

I almost forgot this one. Old Offenhauser Turbo Thrust tunnel ram for big block Chevrolet with square ports.

Re: period correct tunnel rams
 

Wanna sell that last one? [img]<<GRAEMLIN_URL>>/naughty.gif[/img]