Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1967 Impala SS thermal vacuum switch replacement, 67 impala ss, heater hoses

Question
Hi Tazz,

I have a '67 Impala SS with 327ci/275hp.  The thermal vacuum switch that is in-line with one of the heater hoses that goes into the fire-wall and also has 2 vacuum lines attached recently broke apart due to rust.  This component has never been replaced in the 40 years that we've had the car.  When I checked on the internet and called several shops, they say that there is no manufactured direct replacement for this part.

1. is it OK to bypass this part and if so, what are the implications?

2. if I need to replace this, how do I go about cross-checking what make/model part will work since there's not one specific to my car?  Or should I just keep looking until I find an old original in the junk yard that may be just as rusty as mine?

Thanks for the help.
---Dwayne

Answer
bypass with a manual valve is the simplest way to go. They make generic heater cut off valves for what ever size hose you have (i.e. 3/4 shutoff with hose bibs)

Any vacuum operated valves for water service will work. Most parts books cut off at 68, except for Corvette which goes back to '61. I would check a couple of newer years and see what they offered. (no I wouldn't, I would just bypass it, but you know what I mean.)