Lohmeyer

I have a 396021F block and J code heads trying to figure out which exhaust manifolds will work.

droptopron

J heads are later model (smog) heads but any BB exhaust manifolds will bolt up

Allan R

The block is obviously a 455. If you want to know what year, check the engine stamping pad. It will start with a 3 followed by a letter, then a number. That third number tells the year of manufacture.

Are you looking for stock manifolds? They are available from aftermarket vendors. Or, you can post in the parts wanted section of this site.

As noted, the heads are 1973+. You can have them remachined or you can buy earlier model heads that flow a bit better if you want. Everything depends on what you want to do with the car.

Allan R

Just curious - what are the first 7 of the VIN, and what model of Cutlass is it? The VIN will tell us that.

Allan R

BTW, here's a link to a 'retirement sale that Bob Kelso is having. He has a set of G heads (1971) that could be a nice add to your 455.
Retirement sale - Olds parts
You might be able to negotiate on them as they are heavy pieces.

Lohmeyer

[QUOTE=Allan R;1115611]The block is obviously a 455. If you want to know what year, check the engine stamping pad. It will start with a 3 followed by a letter, then a number. That third number tells the year of manufacture.

Are you looking for stock manifolds? They are available from aftermarket vendors. Or, you can post in the parts wanted section of this site.

As noted, the heads are 1973+. You can have them remachined or you can buy earlier model heads that flow a bit better if you want. Everything depends on what you want to do

Allan R

Having some difficulty with posting on the site I see.
You don't have to press the quote button. All you need to do is type in the box below the last post and then hit "post quick reply'

Allan R

BTW, the site has recently undergone some changes to the posting methods, so it might be a challenge at first, but you'll get used to it quickly. There are some features I don't like but, meh..

joe_padavano

Just to sum this thread up, your manifolds need to fit the chassis as well as the motor. In this case, you want the W/Z manifolds as used on the 1972 big block A-body cars. Yes, they bolt to your J heads.

Lohmeyer

Thanks