I just picked up this '65 V-6 F-85 deluxe, with a worn out Buick V-6. It's a 3 speed manual. I have a new 330 engine needing a car and need to know if the swap will be ok. I do know of the following differences that I can overcome:
- different radiator supports
- fuel lines on opposite sides
- cross member engine mounts different
- front sway bar diameter
This is an original paint car bought new in Texas and moved to New Mexico, 100% rust free and pot metal pit free.
You guys are the experts

 

The frame is the same just the items mentioned are different. Probably have to reroute a few wires also.

 

Thanks, I can deal with that, luckily have V-8 radiator support with battery tray, radiator, Cutlass sway bar, will have to order new fuel line and find correct cross member mounts.

 

That is a great looking car! Nice find. I see you have a 330 for it already, if you didn't a 3.8 Buick V6 Turbo would fit, just sayin...

Are you keeping it manual transmission?

Stating the obvious here, it's going to need exhaust work in that bud$$$get. What are the plans for that?

 

Would that car be a V6 Sports Coupe? Those are actually kind of rare. Basically a Cutlass trim level with the V6. In 1965 you couldn't get bucket seats in the F85, only in the Cutlass. The V6 Sports Coupe was the exception.

 

Notice factory bucket seats and console, very rare car but not desirable, but I'm a '65 nut. All the data plates on the V-6 cars had the V-8 model number though. Only the VIN has the V-6 model number in my experience.

 

Manual? Do bears **** in the woods?
Budget includes my new 330 that got new 350 pistons, new cam from Bernard Mondello, headers, keep the saginaw for now, stupidly sold my spare Muncies. Ordered the new interior today, will buff out the original paint and leave it that way.

 

Correct. This is another example (like the 68-69 442s) where the cowl tag doesn't match the VIN. Personally I'd keep it as a V6 due to the rarity, but obviously it's not my car. The "not desirable" is more related to the fact that no one knows what they are.

 

Roger, I believe only the bottom portion of the radiator support is different for the V6...it's just not as deep if memory serves?

I'm wondering if you could drill out the spot welds and just weld in the deeper V8 portion.

Such a cool car man!
Lets see if those front springs can handle the weight difference.

 

Peter, I have a couple of V-8 radiator supports so I'll just switch it out. You are correct that the V-6 is different in height. Also have a recored '65 radiator to use and battery tray, the battery is on opposite sides. Already ordered new interior and all the weather striping. I have some extra Cutlass front springs I'll probably have to put in. Also bought new tires, keeping the narrow white walls, I like the look with the wire wheel covers.

 

Good deal!
Thats such a good looking car.

I love that you tell what model a 65 is just by looking at the fender.
The F85/V8, F85 Deluxe, Cutlass, 442, Vista and your F85/V6 all had different fender punches.

 

Or, no fender punches at all. The Club Coupe with 442 option would have no fender emblems at all.

 

Roger you really scored on this one. Absolutely beautiful.