[BobFmTyler]

I hope this is not too dumb. Prior to 1970 the L78 was rated at 375 hp with 396 c.i. but in 1970 it was still rated at 375 hp with 402 c.i. According to my books all else was the same. Can anyone explain this?
Thanks

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Bob

My 69 Malibu

 

[Steve R]

Yep your book was correct. The factory did a .030 overbore, but kept calling it a 396 because of the name recognition. They also kept the same power rating because even if there was a power increase it would be insignificant.

How is the El Camino purchase going?

Steve R

 

[Chuck Nixon]

Bob, you are not dumb, you are in the learning phase of Chevelleland. Ain't it great? Been at it a little over 3 years and learn something new everyday because of this great site. See my post today on gas leaks, without the site I never would have known what to look for. Does my crystal ball see an Elky in your future?

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1970 SS 454 Hardtop
1969 Lemans Blue Corvette
1993 SS 454 Red Pickup
TC Gold #155

 

[joe58]

From what I have read, the new 1970 emission laws were less stringent for engines over 400 cu in. It was less expensive for Chevy to make the 402 cu in motor instead of the 396 but they retained the 396 identification.