Handymann3

Hey everyone, new here but already have a few questions. Right now I have a '81 trans am that I was planning on dropping my 403 into. Everything was all set out but in a quest to find some parts I came across a 1976 455 for $250 but it needs a new crank. I had my whole 403 build planned out, but I only planned on running the engine for a few years untill I had the cash for a 455.

Anyways, if I do end up getting this engine what should I look for parts wise? In my T/A I have a 3:73 posi and in the intrest of saving cash, I will stick the TH350 that I got with the 403, behind the 455 untill I can afford to get a muncie and all the parts I need. My goal for this engine is to be as cheap as it can be, but still run 12's in the 1/4. This will be my first build and I plan on this being my DD to work and school during the summer.


I already know I will need to pick up earlyer heads. I have heard you can do some work for the J heads to flow well, but I dont have the cash to do all that LOL. But what else should I look for? One of my biggest questions is what intake to get? I am guessing the performer but then again, you guys know more then me

Hopefully everyone gets a chance to come up to the OCC this weekend, thats where I plan to get most of these parts from anyways LOOLL!

Thanks in advance everyone.


Adam

MN71W30

I would wait for a better engine...Their out there. I found a 455 shortblock rebuilt on Craigslist for $800. A low budget option would be to find a good runner, 1968-70 preferably and cam it and you'll be running very low 13's or possibly a high 12 with the gears you have. You'll have a ton of money in that 455 with crank trouble in no time.
Just my 2 cents,
Welcome to Classic Olds.
Dave

Olds64

x2

Since that engine needs a new crank just rebuild the 403 that you have. It is a good engine.

citcapp

I would go this route and save a lot of money. Craig list and e-bay have them quite often. I have bought a few this way. Or buy and old 98 and part it out

Handymann3

Yea, I thought about it some more and since its a low compression engine and I dont plan on new slugs, I would be pretty screwed. I think I will stick to building my 403. I will end up with a nice little engine when I am done. I think I will even be able to swing a Muncie. Better off with the 403, I get everything I want. Guess the 455 will get put in the back burner for a while. Thanks guys

Olds64

403s are good engines. I'm sure it will be WICKED if you build it right.

MN71W30

Make sure you have the crank drilled for a pilot bearing if you want to run a Muncie. Most Olds motors don't have the cranks pre drilled.

Handymann3

Yea, I actualy really love the 403. Its such a over looked engine by everyone outisde the olds group.Even some of the olds guys like to over look them! I think its a pretty kick *** egine. Most people are just giving these engines away! I picked mine up COMPLETE with a TH350 for just $150. As much as people will say how cheap it is to build a chevy, I think for a pump gas street pounder, the 403 is pretty damn cheap. Not to mention that parts are pretty easy to pick up as long as you know the right people. Also, I was reading somewhere that most olds cranks where drilled for the pilot bearing from the factory starting in '77. I already checked my crank and its drilled so theres no worries there Also, I dont wanna add to the drama, but I have been snooping around the site and saw that there are MANY people here, that have been turned away from ROP. I have my own little story to do with that, but its pretty much the same as everyone else. Just glad theres such a big olds community

Olds64

Glad you joined our site. We are glad to help.