Guys,
I really need some help here. I bought a 455 for my cutlass. I started taking it apart to get it to the machine shop. The problem I have is that I noticed a hole behind the upper timing gear. It looks very round, almost like it should be there. The problem is that it is very jagged to the touch. I don't think it should be there. I can see right into the valley from the front of the block. Does anyone know if that hole should be there? Any pics of the front timing area--preferably disassembled-- would be GREATLY appreciated. I don't want to waste any more time or money on this engine if it shouldn't be there.

 

I think your fine. Here's a couple photos showing a hole with rough casting edges about the 1:30 o'clock position above the camshaft. John

P1010025-4.jpg

P1010027-2.jpg

 

if its on the upper right side its the top end oil drain for the valve train just looked at mine grind it down so its smooth and so oil wont puddle up there

 

Oil drain back to the pan........I round mine out even more and taper the hole to insure qiuck drain back to the pan......I got a pick somewere hold on........

 

Heres a before picture.....Unmodified



Rounded and smoothed out....



The little stuff like this helps the somewhat weak Olds oiling system.....



Smoothed out the drain back path from the heads also...

 

You guys are AWESOME!!!! Thank you.. I was really scared about that!

 

No prob........the block in my pictures is now stuffed full of Eagle Rods Arias flatop pistons and a lightned crank.......I'll get my Eledebrock heads ready this winter and have her all ready for spring!