3788402
General Motors Part # 3788402 Clutch Fork Boot
The "402" clutch fork boot is a rubber seal that
attaches to the 62-67 Chevy II and Nova bellhousings.
This seal helps in protecting the clutch assembly
from water and road grime. Although as with other
fork boots it is not "water tight", it greatly reduces
the amount of contaminants that would otherwise
enter the bell through the fork hole.
I don't possess a used or N.O.S. version of this boot,
but I do know a run of the mill part # 14007355 will
not fit the early Chevy II Bellhousings without major
modifications. Below I have a reproduction boot that
I compare to a new "355" boot.
Repo #3788402 Fork Seal
It is hard to see a difference from this view.
Notch
Because the part # 3788383 and part # 3849309
Bell Housings that these boots are intended for have
a transmission mounting bolt in the fork "window"
the boot needs to be notched on the inside to clear
the bolt.
Side by Side
The reproduction"402" (on left) is taller with a
smaller base when compared with the "355" seal.
Inside compared
This is were the major differences start to be apparent.
The "402" boot is more compact and notched. In this view
you can see that parts are close to the same overall width.
Outside compared
The part # 14007355 is a good 1/2" longer than the
early Nova part.
Applications
3788402
0.797 BOOT, Clutch Fork
62-67 Chevy II (Chevy Parts Book)
Disclaimer:
Most parts that I describe and picture have identification on or with them, others I can identify from other sources and deduction (educated guess).
Factory correct applications are your responsibility. GM made part and part # changes with no rhyme but a reason (no production interruptions at any cost).
Applications are for replacement parts that were available at the time of parts book printing, and when possible model specific assembly manuals.
My observations come from the parts I have in my collection or other reliable sources your parts may differ.
If Factory correctness is your goal, do more research, join car clubs,
forums and buy an assembly manual if one is available for your Project Car (you wont be sorry).
This is a fun and interesting part of the hobby!