Rochester 4bbl Carburator for 1968

Q: Rochester 4bbl Carburator for 1968

I have a chance to buy a Rochester 4bbl carburator for my 1968 H.O. How much is this worth since it is already up to $200 on eBay?

A: The 7028269 Rochester 4Bbl Carb was originally used on all 1968 Tempest and Firebird 350, Manual Trans, 4Bbl engines.

According to the PMD Engine Production Log Records:

2,658 “WR” code (Tempest) 350 HO 4Bbl, M.T. engines were built. 3,784 “WK” code (Firebird) 350 HO 4Bbl, M.T. engines were built.

So, there were 6,442 engines built that year using the # 7028269 Carb. Additionally, there were Service Replacement Carbs. mfg. with this same number. (though sometimes found with date codes 1-3yrs. past production.) Not sure where the seller came up with the production number of 1,400 and that all carbs were built on the same day. I’d have to see documented evidence before believing that one. Carbs. were generally built to spec. according to build orders unless the carb was some odd-ball, low production unit such as RAV.

Speaking of Date Codes, some early production 1968 model Rochester Carbs did not have a date code. Others were stamped on the LH, Rear edge of the Throttle Body (lower section). Most date codes were stamped on the Bowl Assy. near the Rochester Assy Number. Date Codes used the Julian Date System. (day of year- 3 digits followed by last digit of year)… 245 8 (245th day of 1968, ’78).

If your Firebird is documented as a 350 HO car and you would like to have all the numbers match, you might want to pick this carb up. I wouldn’t get too carried away in the bidding war… this is not a “rare” carb. Considering a good rebuild can cost upwards of $300+, I wouldn’t spend over $200 on the carb as it is. Of course, if you’re a numbers nut like me, money sometimes isn’t the primary issue.

Best advice: wait and bid just before the end of the auction.

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