Big Block 1969 Camaro Identification Guide

Big block 1969 Camaros are some of the most sought-after GM muscle cars of all time. So, if you're in the market for one, you should know how to tell if the car is a true big block or just a fake. In this article, we will go over a true big block Camaro and explain how you can identify one for yourself.

This information is important if you plan to buy a big block Camaro to restore. While this isn't a comprehensive guide, it's a good starting point for those looking to learn more about these cars before buying.

Big Block Engine Bay Features

One of the best indicators of whether a '69 Camaro is a big block is the heater box. Big block heater boxes have hoses that come out of the front, whereas small block heater boxes have hoses that come out of the side. This adjustment was made to provide clearance for the larger valve covers of a big block engine.

Another feature of big block Camaros is the dual fuel lines. Although the lines are a bit bent on our Camaro, their presence indicates that this is not a 396/375 horsepower model but a 396/325 or 396/350 horsepower variant. These details might seem minor, but they provide crucial clues about the car's original setup.

Transmission Clues and Brake Setup

Staying in the engine bay we noticed the hole in the firewall for the speedometer cable, indicating that this Camaro was originally equipped with a Muncie 4-speed transmission. If it had been a Saginaw transmission or a three-speed, the hole would have been located differently. This detail helps confirm the Camaro is a performance package.

Disc brakes are another hallmark of a big block Super Sport (SS) Camaro, and this one still has its original front rotors and a disc brake master cylinder. Big block engines were offset slightly to the passenger side in 1969 Camaros, requiring different cross members and motor mounts. Though they're missing on this particular car, they're a crucial part of the big block setup.

Original Details and Changes Over Time

Moving underneath the car, we spotted a unique feature on big blocks, a plate welded to the rear frame rail. This confirms that this Camaro originally had a dual exhaust which was a common feature on big block, four-speed models. Although the car’s original 12-bolt rear end has been replaced, the presence of multi-leaf springs is correct for an SS 396 model.

The example car's paint is a bit of a mystery, as it's difficult to determine the original color. While the current condition is rough, certain elements like the deluxe interior hint that the car had a high-option status back in the day. The interior features deluxe door handles, wood grain trim, and brackets indicating it was a console car. This all points to the Camaro being a high trim level.

Inspecting the Body and Identifying the Trim

One question with any classic Camaro is whether the body panels have been replaced. Upon inspection, the quarter panels appear original with no visible seams, indicating that if they were replaced, it was done with full panels. Notably, this car has holes on the side that would have held trim specific to the high-performance X22 package, confirming it was a genuine 396 big block car. The trim and molding details align with a 396/350 horsepower or 396/325 horsepower setup.

Find and Restore a Piece of History Yourself

This 1969 Camaro is more than just a project, it's a piece of muscle car history. With its big block engine, Muncie 4-speed transmission, and deluxe interior, it's a high-option model that's waiting to be brought back to its former glory. Hopefully, with this new information, you're able to find a genuine 1969 big block Camaro for yourself.

Thanks to our friends over at Backyard Barn Finds for providing us with the basis of the information in this article!