Paddles

i was working on my 1955 olds with a 323 or 321 V8 engine and when I checked compression I was only getting approx 30# in the cylinders so I ordered a rebuild kit and when I started ripping into the engine I found that I was missing some parts that are kind of hard to come by from the normal websites I have been using. I am missing 3 rocker arms, 3 hydraulic lifters, 5 push rods, 3 large bolts that are the one in the attached picture that go threw the rocker arm assembly into the head and 1 smaller bold that goes into the bottom part of the head and finally some kind of cast iron bottom cradle that attaches from one side of the engine to the other underneath the flywheel and I'm assuming that it attaches the transmission to the engine but I can't seem to find a picture that has that angle of the engine. Not sure if someone has a lead on any or all of these parts from a website or extra's from there rebuild and I can purchase them or any advice. Thanks for the help guys

2blu442

If its a 1955 it should be a 324. I may have some of those items, but am sure other members here do as well. I'd encourage you to create a parts wanted thread to see what kind of response you get. I will look to see what I can dig up, but if someone else offers up the parts first at what you feel is a fair price don't wait on me. John

2blu442

I think this may be the cradle piece your describing. If it is and your interested please send me a pm or email with your shipping address. I'll send you a total price, purchase plus shipping. I've got some used lifters you could have if you want to go that route. John

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Tedd Thompson

Small block Chevy lifters can usually be substituted for Oldsmobile lifters if you can't find the original parts and I should have used stock push rods if you can't find some closer. That bolt can be found at Fastenal or other fastener store. I have the transmission/starter mount but there again freight would be a killer from the west coast and I really wasn't looking to part that engine out but if you get stuck try John first if that doesn't work give me a PM..... Tedd

redoldsman

As John said, the engine is a 324. Fusick has most of the parts you are looking for including all the rocker arm pieces. While you have the engine apart you should replace all the lifters. A word of caution, when you assemble the rocker arms onto the shaft, be sure the holes in the shafts where the oil goes to the rocker arm are facing down. I paid several hundred dollars to learn this lesson. The factory shop manual does not mention this.

59-59-59

Well if you need those bolts, and can verify they are 7/16-14 thread size, I have a couple off a stripped 371 Olds. Just pay shipping

rocketbob54

Hey Paddles, I have everything you need and more. I have parted several 324 engines over the years. I sent you a PM.