[macf85]

Here are the Hot Rod articles.

[macf85]

I’ve never seen factory published data but my factory tach (Cutlass, not Jetfire) shows redline between 5400 to 5600 RPM. I have an old Hot Rod Magazine article on the 215 from a special magazine in their “Technical Library” called HOT RODDING The COMPACTS. They did some tuning and some easy bolt-on component replacements to see what kind of power they could get from the stock engine. They experienced valve float at just over 5000 RPM with the stock valve springs. The factory specs. for the Jetfire engine are peak horsepower of 215 at 4600 RPM and peak torque of 300 ft lbs at 3200 RPM. Later today I’ll try to post the Hot Rod article. It’s very interesting. There’s also an article on the Jetfire & Corvair turbo engines that I’ll try to post as well.

[macf85]

Ken, sorry to see that after the nice work you did on the bottom window frame. At least the whole roof didn’t get caved in. Hope your garage and its contents didn’t get too damaged and that you get power back soon!

[macf85]

Joe,

Fusick Automotive has the red-orange air cleaner paint. Part number AF150S. Fusick is at (860)623-1589. Dupli-color makes a perfect aluminum color engine enamel paint, part number DE 1615. You should be able to get this at any of the big auto parts stores.

The J tube you are talking about is a road draft tube to evacuate crankcase vapors. The 1963 went to a PVC valve to recirculate the vapors back into the engine. Maybe you can place a want ad on this web site for the road draft tube. Not sure about the grommet, my old one was good enough to re-use.

If you really want to detail the engine, Jim Osborn reproductions makes decals for the air cleaner and the little rocket emblems on the valve covers.

[macf85]

Ken,

I saw a center link (drag link) on ebay today if you’re still looking for one. Right now there is about 6 days left on the auction. Looks to be correct by the photograph.

Here’s what the add description says “1963 OLDSMOBILE F-85 STEERING DRAG LINK NOS. GM# 5677800. This is a New Original GM Steering Drag Link Correct for the 1963 Olds F-85 and Cutlass. The Drag Link has some paint loss and has acquired some Cosmetic Rust over the Years in Storage at the Dealership but Is New and in Good Condition. Great Hard to Find Item for your 63 F-85 Restoration.”

Don

[macf85]

I was thinking about posting a reply about being civil in our sharing of knowledge. I’m glad you did. Thank you!

[macf85]

Original Parts Group now has front and rear seat upholstery for the 1963 Jetfire/Cutlass bucket seat interior with the correct horizontal pleated pattern in solid color vinyl. beige, black, blue,red, saddle and white…sold without the foam. Never thought I’d see the day. complete set is listed for $574.95. Maybe they’ll do something for the 61s & 62s one of these days with the proper two-tone and pattern.

[macf85]

I couldn’t find a dual outlet muffler for my Cutlass after a few years of searching. I ended up having Waldron’s exhaust make one for me. This is an option if you can’t find anything NOS. It has welded ends vs crimped/folded ends but fits exactly the same otherwise.

[macf85]

I have a 1963 Cutlass with 215 & 4 Speed manual trans and a console. This option came with a factory electric tachometer. To the best of my knowledge the Jetfire only came with the vacuum/economy gauge. The distributor with mechanical drive was probably changed by a previous owner. Or it may have been a dealer added option.

[macf85]

Congratulations! Good luck getting it dialed in. I bet your wife is happy.

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