Hello everyone. First post here. I’m trying to help my dad out. He doesn’t do the internet.

He’s had an 88 Cutlass for about 20 years and is wanting to put a 455 in it. He got the 455 out of a junkyard Toronado 10 years ago or so. He also bought some J heads once upon a time and discovered after the purchased that they were milled .040. Are these even worth messing with? If so, what kind of dish pistons would you recommend? He says they cc’d at 61, but he’s not 100% sure. I need to check them again. He’s wanting a streetable, torquey motor that’s just fun to drive. We’re not looking to build a drag car.
Thanks in advance!

 

If he is determined to use the J heads, mill them some more, use the thin head gaskets. Unless he plans to use pistons with a shallow dish, the compression will leave much to be desired

 

Check the head cc's again. 61 cc's sounds a little off for having .040" milled off. I am thinking you might be closer to 71 cc's.
......Just my two cents worth

 

X2. Check em before you go any further.

 

If they've been cut that much already, you'll start running into intake fitment issues. As much as you may want to move forward with those heads, E, G, GA, K, and Ka heads can be had for around $100 and are a much better start. ALSO....what's the intent of the build? Headers for that 455 are not only $800 but one tube goes outside the frame and limits turning radius. No problem if he's running manifolds but other things to consider are the drivetrain. That 7.5" rear axle isn't going to last long.