Further Research on Mopar 340 Exhaust Manifolds & Heat shields

Research into the applications and part numbers from the Chrysler Parts Books

10/29/20242 min read

Hope everyone is doing well! I have been working towards my next product(s) and in doing so, I was researching the 340 exhaust manifolds and heat shields from '71 through '74. Some of you I'm sure already know this and or have alternative information based on personal experiences. But I found this interesting and maybe helpful so I thought I would post. I went through all the Chrysler parts books and made this summary chart. Some things I learned:

1) I thought that the 2863 552 P/N (2863 553 hp casting) ended at the end of the 1970 model year or at least early 1971 model year for all applications. It did for E-body but not for A-body. This seems to have happened for A-body approx. Jan 24, 1972. So, I need to update my application for my heat shield until this date for A-body. (DONE)

2) Starting in 1971 the A-body and E-body manifolds were different on the driver's side. E-body had versions for '71-'72 and then a similar looking but different part number for '73-'74.

3) The heat shield 2946105 is showing application until 1973 in the books (yellow highlighted in chart). This has to be an editing error as I'm sure they carried over information from the previous year. Along with the manifold, I believe the air cleaner changed from the unsilenced version to one using the silenced inlet with the carburetor heat stove (or Carburetor Air Heater). The books show both the 2946105 & 3671 989 heat shields for A-bodies starting in 1972 through 1974. The 3671 989 has similar shaped heat shields but attached to the carburetor heater with brackets and screws. I'll have to research the air cleaners to see if this verifies the heat shield applications.

My question for you 1972 -1974 A-body guys.... Is there any interest in a reproduction heat stove & heat shield? I'm not sure there is a demand for this, but I could possibly modify the trim on my heat shields and tool up the heat stove and brackets. I'll have to do the business case. Any input would be appreciated!!!