dgmeadows

In 2021, I purchased a 1979 Cutlass Calais with 260 diesel and only 39,000 miles on the odometer (see my avatar pic). It was running good, and I drove it several times over the next few months while I accumulated parts for a drivetrain swap. That happened in mid-2022. The diesel engine and auto transmission (not sure if it is a 200 or 250 THM) have been in dry storage in a friend's warehouse north of Atlanta, GA (Alpharetta) since they were pulled. I will locate pictures of the items and post when I can. I also have a video of the engine running in my backup files from my previous cell phone.

I know they are not worth a lot, but as they only had ~39,000 miles on them when pulled, and the prior owner (2nd) actually spent $$ having a diesel mechanic get it moving again before I acquired it, I hate to just junk them.

I have no idea what they are worth, so I'll just throw out $1,000 for both, OBO. I have a trailer and can arrange for delivery or meet-up within a reasonable distance from the northern half of Georgia. They are stored on pallets.

I also have a set of 14" Olds SS III wheels in dark carmine with BF Goodrich Radial TAs, and front and rear sway bars (I replaced with aftermarket), diesel gauge package for 79 Cutlass Calais (tach, speedo, temp, voltage, fuel, oil pressure. I will post those separately.

Sugar Bear

Depending on what you plan, the radiator and external oil cooler adapter at the filter may be useful.

Olds64

Very cool! Can't wait to see the pics. GLWS!

dgmeadows

Here are pics. I forgot about the 7.5" rear end. That can go with the engine and transmission.

Olds64

Be aware that the engine has a sensor on it to run that tach. Make sure you remove the sensor and offer it with the tach when you post it for sale. Good luck. 👍

BlueCalais79

DG, what's that axle ratio on that rear, and is it a Limited Slip (can't see if there is a tag). If it's a 2:73 or 3:08 I may be interested in it if you might be willing to sell it separately. If you can get me the code I'll look it up.

I've got a 3:08 LS in my blue 79 Calais which is getting tired. It's set up with a (very freshly) rebuilt 200R4. I think I can go as low as a 2:73 but no further than that. I'm in west/central SC so a pick up is not out of the question.

78Cutlass4Speed

According to the factory literature, it looks like the 2.41 gears were the only option available with the 260 diesel and automatic. The 5-speed manual was an option that shows both the 2.93s (standard) and 3.08s (optional). Limited slip was available with all ratios.

BlueCalais79

Thanx Phil, with my 200R4 and a 2:41 I'd need a 3 mile head start instead of a 2, I'd better pass this one up.

dgmeadows

Sorry guys, I did not get any e-mail notice about responses. No posi tag on the rear, and I would expect the information provided about ratio being 2.41 is likely correct.

BlueCalais79

Thanks, had I not converted my 79 to a 200R4, this would have been a heck of a great acquisition.

dgmeadows

Bumping to the top. I will need to get these items moved from my friends' warehouse in the next couple of months. Let me know any offers or interest. The 7.5" rear axle and wheels I can bring home and store for later sale, but the 260 diesel and transmission will likely go to the junker if no one wants to take them off my hands. Seems a shame to junk functional motor and transmission with only 39,000 miles on them.

brownbomber77

For the guys who know, would it even be worth throwing 4A or 3A heads on these for a gasser? I know, 90 fewer cubic inches but would be a high compression 260. When or if you do junk it, save the accessory brackets. Otherwise, yeah, short block won't be worth much unfortunately.