Hey guys wanted some advice on getting my 455 overhauled. Should I buy the parts separately or in a kit. Also what sizes should I go with, I'm lost when it come to compression sizes and stuff so any help wolu be helpful. Also I'm going with and oldsmobile 455 bolt to a 700r. I'm looking for a strong idle with good highway miles. Thanks again

 

Jay,
I don't know of any quality kits. I believe you're better off going w/ quality products from afew different brands. Depending on what kind of engine you're building, sounds like just a strong street version, I'm sure afew knowledgable guys on here will put you in the right direction. Just give them a day or two. IMO, high compression forged pistons are a better choice f/ only afew dollars more, and won't put your compression too high f/ pump gas. The most important part, and maybe the more difficult part of your build will be locating a quality machinist who knows Olds engines, depending on where you are.
Just give it a day or two and the guys will chime in.
Good Luck, Sincerely.

 

I know it's a little more time consuming,but I always hand-pick my engine pieces.Even when doing the more popular Chevy & Ford builds,I still hand-pick the parts.I have never found a complete kit,for any make,that had every single piece that was what I wanted.Everyone wants to offere a "good" kit,but always find a way to skimp on something to keep the price competative to the other kits.

 

Check out the several builds in this forum. They range from mold to hi-compression high HP. Then ask you questions. It truly is bout the money and your goals. In the NW 2.5 to 3k is about average for a mild build and it goes up from there. Some parts although look like good deals but may cause more machining for clearances which drive up costs.

 

I am rebuilding my 455 in my 1971 442 convertible clone and I am not a mechanic by any means as far as building engines. My uncle is the master builder he is trying to save me money. I just want a mild motor because before I messed the engine up it made excellent power and torque to so it will be back stock again he want to do everything that it needs but if it doesn't show wear in places like cam and lifter he recommends re using the old ones what do you all think me personnally if i am spending 1500-2000 I want everything brand new

 

NEVER REUSE OLD LIFTERS! Even if you keep them in order, a new set is $50-60, not worth it imo.

What did you mess up on it? Don't skimp on quality machine work, otherwise you'll be doing it again.

 

You said you messed it up? What happened? If you can get away with a ring job and bearings you can save some $$ but i would defiantly replace the cam/lifters, today's cams are much more efficient and give more power. just make sure you break in your cam properly and use a ZDDP additive if the oil you use doesn't have the adequate amount. Believe me i know from wiping out cams !

 

The 70 455 restoration engine that I am doing will cost about $5500.00 when it's all done & running,start to finish,top to bottom.Nothing exotic.Your basic reliable,mild-built,street engine.The carb,intake,heads,block,crank,rods,& distributor are already owned,and will be restored & reused.