Hello everyone. Good to be here. I recently bought a 71 Cutlass stored away for years in someone’s garage. It has a 455 motor and a 402 kit. It to my knowledge is NOT a 402 it just has the 402 pieces. The car is in immaculate shape, it just needs painting and a few other cosmetic things done to it. I paid 12k for it. Was that a good deal? This is my first classic car and I admittedly lack knowledge in this area. Also, if any one can direct me to someone who works on classic cars in the Columbus, Ohio area I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks again. I will post pics soon.

 

Welcome. Perhaps put where you are located on your profile. Find out what this "402 kit" is, honestly, I never heard of it.

 

Welcome to the site, post some pictures of your car when you get a chance. I have no idea what a 402 kit is, the only time I've heard that term is with a BB Chevy 396.

 

I assume that by "402" kit you really mean "442"? If so, in 1971 a real 442 has a different VIN from a Cutlass, so it's easy to figure out if it's real or not. Sounds like you already know the answer, however.

 

Congrats on becoming a member of the classic car preservation society. As far as the ''good deal'' goes...if you are happy...it is a good deal. Buckle up, you're gonna have a fun ride. I have 2. Had 4. Have a wife. That's why I have 2...

 

 

 

Here are some of the pics. Sorry for the misunderstanding. I admittedly don’t know too much about classic cars. The car actually starts up and runs. It has 442 bodywork and is not a 442.

 

I have two dozen, but I'm on wife #3...

 

Kw, I totally understand the wife thing. Lol! Mine made me get rid of my motorcycles!!😂

 

Just FYI, contrary to what you see today, most 442s did NOT come from the factory with the wing or fiberglass hood - and you could, in fact, optionally order those parts on a Cutlass as well. I'd say that there's a 99.9% chance that the parts on your car are repros. The VIN and cowl tag will tell you exactly what the car started out as.

 

These cars aren't overly complicated and many get a great sense of satisfaction from doing it themselves. This site and a paper service manual (eBay) will get all of your questions answered.

in addition a classic car is typically is a collection of wants and needs, if you don't have a cheap and reliable mechanic ( yourself) it will cost you a fortune to own.

what are your plans for the car

 

Love the Offy valve covers. It looks like a lot of work has already been put in this car.

 

I know it doesn’t look it, but the car is in excellent shape. It’s mainly cosmetic stuff. Lights bumpers etc. I have just about everything it needs already. My plan is to restore it and bring it back.

 

Nice car! Welcome to the site.

 

Welcome to the group... Good luck with your project... You have come to the right place should you need any assistance along the way...

 

On the 402 engine it might be a stroked 455 to 496 cu in. my guess.
Gerald