Now, the engine. The Clark Cortez (through 1968) came standard with a 140 horsepower 225 cid. Chrysler Industrial slant 6 engine. Although a worthy engine (and basically "bullet proof") many Cortezers have V-8 engines now. Ours is a Chrysler Industrial 360 cid. "small block." Although a special bellhousing is required to make the conversion (and many other changes including exhaust, throttle linkage, fuel lines, oil filter modification, wiring changes) the Chrysler remains the V-8 conversion of choice. There are some who have converted their Clark Cortez's to the "Olds Toronado" with great success. An automatic transmission goes along with the Oldsmobile engine change as well.
A little about our engine: It has a Carter AFB carburetor mounted on an Offenhauser dual plane manifold. The engine has been rebuilt at 150k miles with a special camshaft installed to make maximum use of the engine at 2500 to 3500 RPMS. We are able to get 11 MPG sometimes, but usually can expect 10 MPG average. The V-8 is not without it's problems however. Heat is a constant concern. When the ambient temperature is above 90 degrees, it can be difficult to keep the engine cool. (the original slant 6 does not appear to have this heat problem) A complete radiator change and auxillary fan helps, but in the end, the V-8 runs hot, especially working hard on a hot day!
Let's head back outside, I have something else to show you.
