rocket57

1. Is a 371 considered a big block or small block?Might be dumb but im new to Olds,sorry.
2. Where do the vacuum lines from the windshield wipers connect to on the engine? 1957 super88 371 4 bblthnx

Olds64

I believe the 371 and 394 were both considered big blocks.

I am not sure where the vacuum lines connect to. Probably manifold vacuum instead of ported but that is just a guess.

joe_padavano

Neither, actually. The first gen 1949-1964 Olds V8s are a family all unto themselves. There are year-to-year differences that complicate parts interchange. The traditional "small block" and "big block' terminology (which has no formal definition) is usually applied to the 1964-1990 engine family. These motors have a common architecture but two different deck heights, which is the basis for the "big block" and "small block" distinction. This is completely different from Chevy or Ford, where the big and small blocks share virtually no parts.

citcapp

The vacuum line goes from the windshield wiper motor to the two stage fuel pump. the top stage is a vacuum pump

Olds64

I stand corrected.

88 coupe

Common architecture with three different deck heights.

A 371 would be considered a 371.

Norm

rocket57

Thanks guys,now that those are taken care of, how can i test to see if that vacuum still works?Currently the fuel pump is bypassed from gas and vacuum line,not sure why.And if for whatever reason nothing works where on the engine can i connect to to make it work.

joe_padavano

I was aware of the difference in the 394 deck height. What's the break in the others?

88 coupe

'49-'56 = 303/324
'57-'58 = 371 = +⅛"
'59-'64 = 371/394 = +¼"

Norm