I read through all the data Xena posted plus did a search on the web for information. I read till I got blurry eyed about about different heads with numbers, bumps, and triangles, dual exhaust, even gas tank size. At this point I’m not sure anyone knows what that phrase actually means. About the only thing I got from this is the correct carb might be hard to source and better aftermarket heads, intakes, and carbs are available.
Don't know about heads and intakes, not my field.
As to better carbs available? To do what?
If a trailered race car, then yes, a somewhat larger Holley or Carter would give more WOT horsepower than either the Rochester 4-GC or Carter WCFB.
For a reasonably stock STREET 283, the only better carb would be the Carter AFB (either number 9400s or 9410s) and they are more difficult to source than either of the originals, and so in demand that they are more pricy. Plus, they won't fit the original manifold without an adapter.
Remember the stock 4-GC was rated 486 CFM, and the original Carter WCFB about 475 CFM. Both were really too large. The 9400s Carter AFB is rated 400 CFM and runs better on the street. Yes, you can increase efficiency with better heads, exhaust, and cam, and then need the larger carburetor.
The 283 is an extremely versatile engine, but its carburetion needs should be tailored to the rest of the engine and the desired application.
Both the original Rochester 4-GC and the Carter WCFB's are excellent carbs. (Opinion) BOTH are superior to the currently available clones. And as far as being difficult to find? There are 5 of the WCFB's on ebay at this writing.
Jon.
