Identifying a Ram Air

Short answer: Ram Air was a 400-only induction option (open hood scoops, an under-hood sealing pan, and an air cleaner with a rubber ring that seals to the pan), with internal engine differences. Verify it by the engine block code (2 letters under the right head):

1968 Firebird 400 Ram Air Codes
Code Engine
WI Ram Air I, manual
XN Ram Air I, automatic
WU Ram Air II, manual
XT Ram Air II, automatic

Also check the partial VIN (right side of the block near the timing cover), the head numbers (on the center exhaust-port boss), and the date codes (block, heads, manifolds, firewall data plate). A 400 hood and engine added to a 6-cylinder or 350 car doesn’t make it a real 400/Ram Air. To know how the car actually left the factory, get the PHS documentation (~$35, phs-online.com).

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Content last modified: June 13, 2026 at 10:06 am


Categories: Engine - All, Engine - Ram Air Specific

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