Anyone have an idea how to tell how much HP this engine came with stock? Its from a '72 Olds 98, but thats all I know. It has GA heads. Here is a pic of the carb, not sure if that will help.

 

I'd guess around 250

 

Thanks, just out of curiosity why would you guess that number? I've read that HP can range from 225-400 for a 455 but not sure how to tell the difference.

 

1972 Olds 98 w/STANDARD 455 4bbl (L74) & single exhaust was rated at 225hp net.

if dual exhaust was OPTIONAL on the 98?? same engine (L74) was rated at 250hp net.

 

Yes.

Go to http://www.google.com, type "1972 olds 455 horsepower" into the little window, press the "Return" key, and click on the link that says, "1972 OLDSMOBILE “SPECS” BOOK - Wild About Cars."

Standard engine for a 98 was the L74, which was rated at 225HP @ 3600 RPM if it had single exhaust.

- Eric

 

Thanks, so just having dual exhaust was good for 25 HP?

 

My dad had a 71' 98, and was rated for 320 gross hp, and figures to about 250 net hp. Think 72' was the same, but did fall to 225 net hp in following years. Don't know what happened in years when cat converters came in, but surely not good. Add in, these later cars where further choked down by 2.56 rear axles, ext. As I recall, low end torque saved the day on my dads 71', and thing really moved.

 

Do you really have Ga heads on this engine? Because those heads ONLY came on a 1972 W30 car. Also you have the spring holder tab fastened with the upper valve cover bolt used to hold down the Outside Air Induction foam ringed Air Cleaner cover.

 

In my "Motor" auto repair manual 1976 edition. It has 5 versions of the 1972 455. All net hp, 225, 250, 265, 270 and 300. All 8.50 compression ratio and all 4 barrels. My 1971 Delta was a 455 2V@ 8.10 C/R rated @ 185 hp.

 

So please tell us what heads came on the non-W30 455 engines in 1972.



I think the answer is GA.
W-30s got large valves in the GA casting.

 

You have been misinformed. All 1972 455s use a version of the Ga heads.

 

Thank you gentlemen. When I read the claimed W30 quote the BS meter pegged. You beat me to the punch.

 

We have successfully revived a thread that is 4 1/2 years old. At least it was not somebody with a part for sale or wanting a part. Still good info.

 

Yeah, I saw that but figured the info needed to be corrected for posterity.