Hey guys, I have an early Oldsmobile 455 big block in a 1953 Pontiac that I purchased back in September. It's an F code block with C heads. I'm considering selling it because I think the engine deserves to be in an Olds and I'd like a Pontiac engine for my Poncho. I'm really not sure what these engines are worth though. It's a great running engine, just needs a little cleaning up. Any information is greatly appreciated. And if anyone is interested in buying the engine or trading for it, I'm open to offers. Thanks.

 

Welcome to the site. Thanks for sharing.

The C head tells us its probably a 1969 engine. Unless some other engine stampings tell us different. Probably a small valve engine unless you can prove it other wise.

Tell us where you are located. I'm sure someone would show some interest.

The value is between you and the buyer.

 

Thanks for the quick reply. Yeah, I've heard most of the C heads have small valves but I have to comfirm one way or the other. I plan on pulling the engine sometime within the week so I should have more info by then. I'm located in Brielle, NJ.

 

Actually, 455s used C heads in both the 1968 and 69 model years, assuming the heads are original to the block. The VIN derivative stamp on the block will tell you the model year of the block. Value for a stock, running 455 of unknown mileage or internal condition would be $500-$700. Obviously the value will increase if you know the exact mileage, condition, work done, aftermarket parts, etc, etc. As another data point, a running, rebuilt, low mileage 455 with known aftermarket parts runs $2000-$2500. Good luck.

 

Hey, Joe, thanks for your input. Is the VIN derivative stamp you're talking about stamped on the back of the block?

 

The VIN Derivative will be located on a small pad on the block, just under the number 1 spark plug on the side driver's front/side area of the block. It may be difficult to see if the power steering pump bracket blocks the view.

The second digit is the year of manufacture.

See pic below; this on indicates a 1968 block. 3= Olds, 8= Year, M= Lansing Michigan, ######= build sequence number that will match the last six digits of the year of the car.

 

My book says 67 to 69 on the C heads and no telling about the valve size. All 67 442s had the large valve version. Cal and W 30s had the A.I.R bosses drilled, tapped, and plugged. Many 68 - 69 442 automatics had the small valve C heads.

 

I found the area with the VIN deriviative but the number isn't visible. The block has been repainted by the previous owner so I guess I'll have to get through some of it in order to read the number.