Recently purchased a 1957 312 engine and it came with what the seller said was the original 4v air cleaner. This air cleaner has a round air inlet. Since then i have talked to some folks and seen EBAY ads that indicate the air cleaner should have an oval air inlet.

So the question is: Should a 1957 312 Ford have oval or round air inlet in the original air cleaner?

Steve

As far as I know, a 57 Air Cleaner has an oval inlet, that's what on mine, but is it original? Can't say for sure, cause my 312 has a Holley, 2300- 2 Bbl on it, from a 292 setup...

Paul

I have a '56 air cleaner on my truck and it has the round opening.

John - "The Hoosier Hurricane"

My own ’57 Fairlane with a factory installed 312 has a semi-oval opening on the air cleaner.  It’s oval on the sides while the top and bottom of the opening is flat.  This air cleaner is the original to this particular car which came equipped with a Carter four barrel.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)

My 57 bird with 312 has round aircleaner opening (original aircleaner).  It set right down on top of the Edelbrock.

1957 Thunderbird

312