1961 Chevy 409

[Verne_Frantz]

Pete,
That's correct. '61 409 production began in Nov. ('60) and the first Super Sport was more than a few months later. Total Tonawanda engine production was a little over 300 (I have the actual number here somewhere). I'm purely guessing, but the "one of 18" number probably refers to a rumored number of 2x4 '61s produced. This is absolutely not a jab toward Richp, but that is nothing more than a rumor. There have been no confirmed accounts of Chevrolet ever producing such a car. Early 2x4 intakes and #690 heads were made available through dealers and fitted onto existing cars, such as Nicholson's and Strickler's.

Wilma,
I spent a LOT of time looking over that '61 Biscayne outside at York. It's an old drag racer and survivor that was originally a 3x2 348 car.

Verne

[rich p]

Just was told about 61's not having 2 carbs and with paperwork makes it ALL look

[Verne_Frantz]

[ QUOTE ]
Just was told about 61's not having 2 carbs and with paperwork makes it ALL look

[/ QUOTE ]

Rich,
Without getting myself in a sling (therefore, I'm not mentioning names)............if you were referring to a certain shadow gray '61 SS that was built in TX, has "paperwork", and was sold at auction for big $$ not long ago, all I can say is STAY AWAY. The car is a 100% fake.

Verne

[Tommy Nolen]

This my first post here (hope it's ok to post here) this is a topic that is dear to me as I love any '61 automobile with a big motor. Not saying one of these cars doesn't exist but I think the earlier member that referred to the golden chicken lips might be close to being correct.
If you think about what is being discussed here, according to most records, Chevrolet only built 453 Super Sports, there were approx. 6000 Chevrolet dealers across the country in that time frame so think about the chances of any given dealer getting their hands on one. Then, they built 142 cars with the new 409 motor, these motors were installed in any of the big body cars and Chevrolet didn't keep records to show where these motors went. Just to find a '61 Chevrolet of any body style with a '61 409 motor would be outstanding but now we want it to be in the already super rare SS body. On top of all this, we are looking for it to be the original motor!!!!
Good luck!!!!

[Charley Lillard]

Hi Tommy. Welcome to the site.

[Verne_Frantz]

I also welcome you to this site Tommy. It's a Supercar site , but there is a teeny bit of interest in W powered cars here. This actually is a site where many hobbiests mingle who enjoy and appreciate real and rare cars, no matter their gender or vintage. I'm sure that you being one who owns TWO REAL '61 Super Sports will be welcome here.
I'm glad you decided to join the site. Who knows, they might even decide to add an "early muscle" forum. But then, that would probably only attract 1 or 2 other people...................HA!

PS: Tommy and I have been friends for a while,(and have shared a few things in life)and I am very familiar with his two real cars. (not the mention the others that are crammed in the garage)............

Verne

[Charley Lillard]

Maybe another thread with some pics of his cars ?

[Verne_Frantz]

Charley, Tommy has had a dream for many years to have the best examples of '61 big block power. He recently completed his dream. I have photos, but I think it's best to let him show and explain them.
Start a thread Tommy! These guys will LOVE it!

Verne

[Xplantdad]

[ QUOTE ]
Charley, Tommy has had a dream for many years to have the best examples of '61 big block power. He recently completed his dream. I have photos, but I think it's best to let him show and explain them.
Start a thread Tommy! These guys will LOVE it!

Verne

[/ QUOTE ]

Yeah...what he said! Welcome Tommy!

[PeteLeathersac]

Welcome Tommy!.

~ Pete

Can't wait for the pics...hope there's a '61 PST!.