While working on my 442 this weekend, I remembered my Father pulling an engine out of my Grandfathers wagon back in the early to mid 80's shortly after a fender bender. I cant recall what type of wagon it was but I believe it was an olds.

This engine went in his GTO for a few months, removed, and then replaced with the original 389. It has been sitting wrapped in tarps since that time frame and it shows it (dirty, dusty, and some light rust here and there) , although it's complete (block and internals, heads, intake, water pump, oil pan, oil filter housing, and harmonic balance).

Can someone tell me if my discovery is a favorable sleeping giant or a less favorable putt putter (from a performance factor). It could be a rebuild project at some point down the road, if it's salvageable.

The casting number is 396021 F with Ga heads.

What is it?

 

69-72 455
heads 72- w30 non big valve? dont understand the notes in the Tech section

 

455, GA heads are 1972. could be small 2" or big 2.06" intake valves. Another clue would be if you can see a crossover exhaust pipe because single exhaust engines were lower performance than duals, usually.

 

I thought it was a 455 but wanted confirmation. The exhaust manifolds are not with the engine so I'm not sure if it was a single or dual setup originally.

I have no clue about the head valves, I'm clueless in this department...but I'm learning.

Any other way to tell or will it have to wait until it's taken apart and inspected to get definite "this is or that is" answer? I'm sure that will be the case.

 

if the paper tag is still wrapped around the oil filler tube near the top, tell us the letter code.

 

I don't recall seeing a paper tag either, pretty certain it's not there.

I'll take a look and see if there are any
markings on the filler tube and report back momentarily.

 

You'll most likely want to pull the heads and pan to discern the condition of the engine in any case. Then you will be able to tell the size of valves.

 

Finally checked the filler tube. There's no paper sticker. However, there is a number stamped on the tube: 22093

Not sure if that equates to anything or not.

When I have time and storage space, I'll get the engine to a point where I can get some photos. As of now, it's hard to get decent photos from it's current storage position.

As citcapp stated, a complete tear down is the best thing in order to know what I have and if it's worth the time and efforts.

 

It is worth time and money if it's a 455.

 

Alright...alright if ya gonna twist my arm I suppose I should get started on relocation and tear down ASAP!

Wait...wait...Can't have to many projects on the table at once. One plate at a time young grasshopper.

Have to stay focussed on current project (a 455 makes it a difficult task)

 

Yes remember wax on wax off....wax on wax off.........

 

The number on the oil filler is just the engine build sequence number. The partial vin is on the pad just under the head, front driver's side. It doesn't really matter what 455 it is, you will rebuild with different pistons and cam, and can install other valves. Is it cheap? Spun bearings? Bring it to the Zone meet in October, I'll give you a few bucks for it. I always need more stuff to trip over. I only have 8 spare 400s and 2 425s. lol.

 

This "wax on wax off" business takes discipline! Too many temptations to venture into other projects at the same time!

Now now rund, I'd hate to cause a trip hazard and make you miss out on future zone meetings. That just wouldn't be right. lol

Last I remember it was a perfect running engine but it has been sitting since the 80's.

No biggie, I'll get to it one day soon. My current 350 will do just fine for now.

I'll make room and get it from my Parents house to my garage. If I see it on a regular basis, I'll be inspired to get it going again (time and $$$ permitting of course). If it doesn't turn out to be a huge block of solid metal.

Anyone know of a reputable Olds engine builder here in the Dallas/Fort Worth area?