jjpape

Hi guys, new to the site and wanted get some opinions on a project I just started. I've recently bought a 1965 cutlass that the previous owner started to clone as a 442. It currently has a 330 that need rebuilt. My question is should I keep the 330 or get something different? Would there be a value difference if I put a olds 350 in it? Any help would be appreciated.

oldcutlass

Welcome to the site, formally introduce yourself in the newbie section when you get a chance. We do like pictures. I don't think it will effect your value any as its a Cutlass/442 clone. You have many options with the 350, even some with the 330, or a combination of using parts from both.

oldstata

Welcome!

Yes pics are needed lol


330 has a forged crank

If you have the 350 and the cash to do it I would use the 330 crank and build the 350 if not no biggie either way you go. if your just looking to get it on the road pick the running engine and go with it. Personally the 330 is a great running engine and the only parts that seem to sell on them is the cranks and heads the rest is scrap unless some one is looking for numbers/ date code

jjpape

Thanks for the info guys. Would like to find an olds big block someday but just want a cruiser for now. I didn't get to drive it much before the engine started knocking, but seemed like it was a runner. The only real difference I see between the 350 vs 330 is cost/availability in parts. It is the original motor so I guess that's why it's hard for me to part ways with it this early in the game.

oldstata

The cost to build a big block olds and a small block olds are about the same if your going to build do it once! as Oldsmobile engine parts are a bit pricey.

That looks to be s very nice car! Wish I could have started with a nice body lol

cherokeepeople

that looks like a 3 letter county on your plates.you in sac or ida.either way i'm close.cherokee.where did you get it.i had a 65 442 f-85 that i sold to a guy about 15 yrs ago last i knew it was in mapleton.mine was sky blue with black interior/white headliner.if it is the same car it is a real 442,

Napoleon Solo

That's a nice one indeed! More pictures! In my opinion I'd just keep the 330 and work with that. Will it help resale value down the road? Some people don't care but I would.

2blu442

Nice looking car! If there's any doubt of it begin a clone or real 442 check out this thread:

https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums...2-cutlass.html

The frame is an easy thing to check. All 1965 442's and factory 4 speed F85 & Cutlass that year had the frame with one piece side rails over the rear axle. Also the multiple holes to mount the shocks, gussets on the front cross member and a slightly different shape to the rear cross member.


John

2blu442

Or if you have the storage space put the 330 under your workbench and put a 455 in the car.

oldspackrat

I have some 455 core engines here in Indiana.

jjpape

I'm in Linn. After checking the numbers it doesn't seem to be a real 442. I bought it up in Wisconsin a couple of months ago with the intention of rebuilding the engine. it currently has a 1964 2 speed jetaway for a transmission. Although a cool tranny, I would like to convert it to a four speed. I have the engine pulled not, but I'll post some more pics tonight.

jjpape

A 455 would be fun to build up. What should I expect for price for the cores?

oldstata

Check out 442bro.com lots of info and how to do and tips


455 cores range on condition for me I have picked them up between 200-500 bucks complete engines some with th400 still attached

If it's a Fremont car there isn't a real way to prove it was a 442 unless the frame is correct with the partial vin as it was a auto it should be easy to verify
If it was built in landing the cow tag should have a 4v
Can't remember if Canada cars had the 4v or not

cherokeepeople

I have a couple 455 engines i might be willing to part with.one has g heads.the other c heads.i also might have a shortshaft th400 also.

jjpape

Yeah I think that would be a cool motor to have later on down the road. What are your price ranges? I'll have to do some research, but what is the difference between the G and C heads?

TK-65

Oshawa plant didnt make 442s

oldstata

Thanks, good to note for future reference.