Hello all

Can we use pistons of 1957 371 engine on a 1959 371 engine

 

Probably not.
The part numbers are not the same, meaning the parts are not the same.
Since the '59 engine has a taller deck height, the "pin to crown" height may not be the same.

 

I will agree with Charlie Jones. The 1957-58 was a different block, pistons and connecting rods than the 1959-60 371 engine. As I recall, the 1959-60 engine were all low compression, 2 barrel carbs for export and base model 88's. Most people opted for a 394.

From 1958 Oldsmobile CSM
Top of piston to wrist pin center line is (people now days call it "compression height") 1.895-1.898"
Piston pin diameter is .9803 to .9807' 3.126" long fitted .0000" to .0002" loose.

Connecting rod center to center is 6.625"
Wrist pin fit in connecting rod .0003 to .0005"

I don't have a 1959 or 1960 Oldsmobile CSM to compare numbers.

 

I'm going to assume that you are asking this because you can't find any replacement pistons for a '59 371 engine.
I'm thinking you may be able to bore the block 1/8 inch over and use 394 pistons.
These "first generation" motors had very thick cylinder walls.
I know that in the past, 394's were bored 1/8 over to 4 & 1/4 in. And yielded 419 cu in.

 

Sleeve the block and reuse the pistons.

Ron

 

@Charlie Jones Thank you so much for the information

 

@Charlie Jones you are absolutely right, iam unable to get Standard Size pistons for my car, the present pistons which I have are damaged, is there any source who can give me NOS pistons??? I believe the 1959 371 doesn't have enough material?

Any help would be really helpful

 

Check with John McNeil in Oregon. He had a nice 371 not too long ago (blu442 not exact spelling).

Ron