Identifying a Ram Air

Q: Identifying a Ram Air

Hello Everyone! I am new to the list. I am trying to restore a 1968 Firebird just for run, and I was wondering how do I know if it is Ram Air I, II or neither? What exactly is Ram Air?

A: The engine block would have codes:

WI – Firebird 400 Ram Air I (Manual)
XN – Firebird 400 Ram Air I (Auto)
WU – Firebird 400 Ram Air II (Manual)
XT – Firebird 400 Ram Air II (Auto)

More information at: https://FirstGenFirebird.org/1968-info/1968-technical-information/68_id_numbers/

Also look for the Ram System: Upper Hood Baffle, Lower Carb Shroud, Hood Seal, Shroud Seal, Air Cleaner Lid and open scoops.

More information at: https://FirstGenFirebird.org/f-a-q/category/ram-air-specific/

A: Ram Air is an additional performance option on Sport Option 400 Firebirds. It has an induction system that has open scoops on a 400 hood, a big pan bolted to the underside of the hood, and an air cleaner that has a raised rubber ring to seal the housing to the pan. The engine has some internal differences, and RA I is different than RA II in such areas as heads, exhaust manifolds, cam, etc.

You need to check the numbers: 2 letter engine code (on block under right head), 9 digit partial VIN (right side of block next to timing cover, just above oil pan) and heads (large numbers on center exhaust port boss), plus date codes of block, heads, manifolds, firewall data plate. You may also want to look for codes on the transmission and rear axle. You can find a couple books that have these codes, and most are pretty accurate, but not perfect. Isn’t that info somewhere here on Geoff’s site? Report back to the list, we’ll help you decode. Date codes are cast onto the part, are a letter followed by 3 digits. Firewall data plate code is different, it’s 2 digits followed by a number.

You may also want to get the Pontiac Historical Services package on your car to see how the factory built and equipped it http://www.phs-online.com I believe the cost is $35.00. Chances are very good that your car is not exactly the same as it was 32 years ago, so this will tell you what your car was when new. Information is the key to knowledge!

Many Firebirds have 400 hoods and engines added, this does not make it a Firebird 400, it becomes a modified 6 cylinder or 350 car to most judges and prospective purchasers. The fact that we can document our cars is part of the fun of owning Pontiacs over all other brands of American 60’s and 70’s special interest automobiles.

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