Hello everyone hope your all doing ok. So I've gotten my hands on a 78 Oldsmobile custom cruiser with a interesting 403 that's in very nice shape. All of the engine is original and I would like to keep it that way for now. Only new parts around it are a power booster master cylinder and a new radiator and oil pressure gauge. I don't have space yet to pull out the motor. But was hopping to get a few ideas on where to start. Any and all tips or advice would be very nice. I only know so much about older cats but I have enjoyed working on this one alor

 

Welcome to the site. I like the idea of a sleeper wagon. My preference would be a good exhaust system with a proper tune. I'd want to keep it simple on the outside. An understated tire and wheel combo and tinted windows. If the engine runs good, I'd simply spring for a new timing chain, gaskets, freeze plugs and perhaps paint the engine. Replace whats needed only, in the suspension, maybe a rear sway bar if it doesn't have one.
Have fun. Looks like a good car to start with.

 

I would look into changng the rear gears as it probably has somethinig in the 2.xx:1 range. Gears in the 3.xx:1 range would really make it run a LOT better and be much more fun to drive. The 403 in factory form was rated 320 ft-lbs torque so with the right gears it would move very well. Add dual exhaust so the engine can breathe better.

 

Welcome to C.O. You have a nice car. Maintaining it will get you some "thumbs up". Don and Kenneth gave you some great advice. The car is very heavy and performance increases beyond what Don and Kenneth mention would be very costly. Good luck. .

 

only 307 200 metric transmission and 5.86 rear gears 14.50 at 90mph at 4360 lb. Also it's for sale

 

I'd start with a compression test. If it tests good do the timing chain as don71 suggested and valve seals if it uses oil. Dual exhaust, a good tune and gears would wake it up. A level up would be better heads if you wish.

Good luck and drive on!!!

 

Looks like a fun car. Old enough to not have the CCC carb. I like it!

 

Welcome! Wagons are cool.

 

Rad pic! You got a headlight out!

 

Sorry to derail thread... Jeff why is it only 1 high beam light? That is done on tail lights on certain drag cars also I have seen. Does it have some significance? I'm just curious.