Hi Guys,

Well, I blinked my eyes and two years have gone by since I posted about the knock I had in the #'s match 455 in my '70 cutlass convertible (https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums/big-blocks/61643-455-engine-noise.html )

Anyways, couldn't wait any longer and found a shop I think I trust to pull the engine and rebuild for me. In the bay next to mine is another '70 Olds with a fresh 350, so he's familiar w/Olds. Planned on at least pulling it myself, not my specialty but lord knows I've bled from the knuckles on everything else on the car - but two years w/o the time so decided to write a check.

Engine came out last week and is being torn down now. Builder is suggesting using a Comp Cams #42-433-9 hydr roller cam - any thoughts on this? Did a search but gave up after reading 20+ posts.

Basics on the car if it matters for this question:

'70 Cutlass Conv (believed to prev be SX, but now a 442 clone since before my purchase in 2008)
Stock / #'s match L-33 455
E-heads, presumably the smaller valves
Olds w-z exhaust manifolds
7040257 Q-Jet with Performer 2151 intake
Pertronix elec ignition
Turbo 400 w/ Hughes 3K stall
3.23 olds posi rear
15" SS III rims, can't remember tire size but overall diameter close to stock

Goals:

Drive around town car. Occasionally burn rubber from a stop and chirp in 2nd when feeling immature no track duty. 400 HP-ish?

Any thoughts on cam choice appreciated. Comp Cams 42-433-9. Duration 290/296, Lift .515/.533

 

Pistons? Anticipated compression ratio? Idle quality?

 

CutlassEFI-

Pistons - not sure yet, waiting to hear on cylinder condition and suggestions from builder. Any suggestions?

Compression ratio - I think he is shooting for 9.5

Idle Quality - could be a bit lopey but want it friendly for regular stop and go driving.....

 

I'd do something a bit different. 232ish, 236ish on a 108 most likely.
Yes shoot for 9.5-9.75:1 but ask the builder what piston he's planning on using before he buys them.

 

Progress being made while I've been mostly out of town past month. Last two pics from today, supposed to be ready for the weekend

 

Any idea what pieces went into it?