rear end code

[Laurent M.]

Hi Guys
I own an early january 70 (January 13) convertible, base engine ,automatic. I found that rear end casting is CAV and date code 26.dec.1969.
My book shows a 3.08 ratio , application for a 454 Ci automatic and non posi traction.It seems that this rear end wasn't removed from the chassis up to now.
Is it the correct rear end for my car?
Thanks
Laurent

[Joe L.]

Re: rear end code

Hi Guys
I own an early january 70 (January 13) convertible, base engine ,automatic. I found that rear end casting is CAV and date code 26.dec.1969.
My book shows a 3.08 ratio , application for a 454 Ci automatic and non posi traction.It seems that this rear end wasn't removed from the chassis up to now.
Is it the correct rear end for my car?
Thanks
Laurent

Laurent------


Your reference is incorrect. The "CAV" axle code is for a 3.08:1 positraction axle. It is one of 2 codes used for such an axle in 1970. All 1970 Corvettes were positraction since that became standard for Corvettes in 1970. I have no doubt the one you have is original to the car and it's correct.

[Laurent M.]

Re: rear end code

Many Thanks Joe,
Iam very happy to hear that from you and it's a good new.I suppose that the word "standard" means "base engine" right?

[Joe L.]

Re: rear end code

Many Thanks Joe,
Iam very happy to hear that from you and it's a good new.I suppose that the word "standard" means "base engine" right?

laurent-----


I should not have used the term "standard" in my response and I'll correct that. I believe that term is also incorrectly used in the references. "Standard" = non-posi. No non-posi rear gears were used for 1970 Corvettes as all were posi. So, I believe that the "CAV" really denotes a positraction unit used with 350 engine applications.

The only difference between rear ends used for 350 and 454 was the fact that 350 used u-bolt type axles and 454 used cap type axles. Otherwise, they were the same.

[Laurent M.]

Re: rear end code

Thanks Joe all is clear.Other small question,do you know is 1970 base engine was a 2 ou 4 main bolt?

[Joe L.]

Re: rear end code

Thanks Joe all is clear.Other small question,do you know is 1970 base engine was a 2 ou 4 main bolt?

laurent----

All were supposed to be 4 bolt main. Whether, or not, every single one actually was, I do not know as I've not inspected every one.
l

[Jim T.]

Re: rear end code

Joe my 1970 original owner Corvette coupe has a CAV 0702 W real end and is a 3:08 ratio as per the original window sticker that I still have. My rear axles in the differential has the cap type retainers you mentioned for the 454. The retaining bolts do not protrude out the back of the axle, they are completely inside the thick axle cap bolt connection area. The u-bolt type would not work, there is not enough room to attach washers and nut retainers due to the larger size axle. My 1970 Corvette came from the factory with a 350/ 300 HP and turbo 400 automatic. Still drive it.