Looking for a good running buick 231 for a v6 cutlass. They are already junk so please no absolute junk engines. Looking to get a cutlass back running for emissions only, then out it with it.

 

PM answered...

 

3800 engine are one of the best engines made.

 

I think he is looking for the 80's carb'd 231 v6..
The 3800 is a different animal.. only thing the same is the basic design of the block.. And even then..
But yes the 3800 FWD v6 is an awesome engine.. The rear drive 3800 don't seem to last as long.. But they were in Camaro's And most likely driven a tad harder..
The FWD 3800 is a different bell housing pattern (60* v6 "metric)) and the rear drive is the 90*v6 pattern

 

Yes. 231 v6

 

rattle rattle clunk shake....

 

Those are the exact noises the engines makes now!

 

O/P I don't know if this is an option for you, but rebuilders with long blocks of this engine might be willing to "deal" on pricing as most of the vehicles with this engine, have been retired.. And they might just want to unload them..
I've always had good luck with the even fire 231 buick v6.. 300k plus is the norm I've got out of them.. With nothing more than water pump, fuel pumps and a oil pump refresh/timing chain, . oh, and valve cover gaskets..
If you go this route just remember the rear drive engines use the 90* bellhousing pattern, and the front drive use the metric 60* v6 pattern..