When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Hi everyone....I am planning on putting a big block (455ci turned 500ci Stroker) backed by a 700r4 in a 1966 Vista Cruiser. Does anyone know of any issues that I will have in doing so? The 455 should be able to replace the stock 330 without any fabrication correct? What about steering, exhaust or transmission tunnel? Thanks!
455 should bolt in no problem. Be sure you use the 330 motor mounts with it though. The 1966 Vista Cruiser engine compartment is the same size/setup of the 1966 442 which had a 400 engine. The 400 & 455 externally are the same, so should be no problems fitting it in. I'm not as informed about the 700 transmission, but if you use the 200R4 you won't need an adapter between the engine and transmission. You will need to build up the transmission to hold up to the torque of a 455 but this is a common upgrade. The Buick guys have been building 200R4's since the Grand Nationals have been in existence. Can you post pictures of your project? We'd love to see what your working on.
I don't think you'll need any tunnel mods but a new driveshaft will be needed. What are you using for rear gears? Steering and front end will be fine, but possibly a new set of front springs may be in order. I'd run a 2.5" exhaust. A set of BBO headers will work well.
Hi everyone....I am planning on putting a big block (455ci turned 500ci Stroker) backed by a 700r4 in a 1966 Vista Cruiser. Does anyone know of any issues that I will have in doing so? The 455 should be able to replace the stock 330 without any fabrication correct? What about steering, exhaust or transmission tunnel? Thanks!
From the firewall forward the VC is the same as a 442 of the same year, so a BBO bolts in. The bigger problem is the trans. The 700R4 requires a crossmember location that is different from that of other GM transmissions. The boxed frame of the VC requires that the crossmember attaches to tabs welded to the frame. You'll need to weld extensions to these tabs to accommodate the new crossmember location. The e-brake cables may or may not have enough adjustment to work with this new crossmember location.
Thanks everyone for the replies and info. I was pretty confident that the engine wouldn't be an issue, but I thought I would check. I know I will need some cross member fabrication to make the trans fit, but I wasn't interested in cutting the floor. Sounds like minimal work, which is nice. I actually built this engine and trans setup for my 1964 Olds Ninety Eight Holiday, but it is becoming more pain than it is worth. So, I am looking to do an LS swap in that car down the road, but get the Stroker Motor in the VC to get it going. Should be pretty cool! I will definitely share some pics soon. Thanks again!
Thanks for reaching out. I actually decided to put a 350 in this car instead. It is an A/C car and I could not get the big block to clear the heater box with a tall valve cover. I am in the process of hooking up a 350 rocket backed by the factory two speed (rebuilt). Trying to sort through correct pulley and brackets for it. The 500 stroker is now crammed down into a 1964 Olds Ninety Eight Holiday!!
Originally Posted by 65vistacruiser
I own a '65 Vista with a 455/TH400. Did a 700r4 swap in a '68 GTO with 428 last year. Let me know if I can help answer your questions.
That sure looks nice! What Exhaust manifolds did you use with that monster?
My Vista is without A/C and there are no clearance issues.
However, when replacing the old "no rise" intake with a 2151 Performer, I needed to shave the nubs off my hood trim to be able to close the hood with a stock 455 air filter housing. It's that close.
August 24th, 2015, 08:56 AM
