New poster, long time olds guy! I just picked up an olds 455 that was said to have been rebuilt 1 year ago. It looks like it was but what should I be checking befor I put it in my 66 cutlass? Basically what would a good mechanic check to make sure it was done properly.

I apreciate the help for the village idiot.....

 

First of all, you are not an idiot. To really check what you are looking for would require a tear down, price dictates what you are or the seller is willing to to do. Does it turn over with a ratchet? Do you feel compression when you do? What is the condition of the heads./gaskets, and timing chain, and front seal? Alot to go on, I'd suggest if you buy it, have the seller stand behind it, else walk away.

 

I checked everything you mentioned and it all looks good and clean. I paid 800 for it and the guys seems very reputable. He guaranteed the engine and said he would refund my money if theres anything major wrong with it. He is also giving me the turbo 350 tranny for 200 more. Can that tranny handle a 455 ok? Do you think its worth it? Also I want to convert my colum shifter to a floor shifter. I hear that Hurst makes one operated by a cable so I can position it in a custom center console that I have hopes and dreams to make from scratch. Any thoughts??

Thanks kevinkpk

 

Where are you located Tuellbox?
I find BOP transmissions all the time around here for 50 or 100 bucks.

 

A TH 350 probably won't handle the torque of a 455 very well. I suggest you find a TH 400. If you can't go with a Th 400 then just make sure the TH 350 you put behind your 455 is stout.

 

Thanks for the words of wisdom guys

 

Tuel, I have a 455 in my 67 supreme, behind it I have a th400 that I have never had any problems with. On top of the trans is a Hurst quarter stick that came with the car. There is a lockout mechanism that takes some getting used to but you should be able to build a simple console around with no problem. I have a metal surrond box covering the stick that looks good and covers the penetration through the floor if you do not want to put the console in. Good Luck-John