are there any specific indicators that would tell you an engine hasn't been apart since new? For example in 66 did they have those locking exhaust manifold bolt clips?
Yes, they are called French Locks. Another sign is the head gaskets are NOT shim steel, but a composite gasket. The intake gaskets are NOT shim steel, but composite. The oil pan gasket looks newer. Tom T.
well looks like exhaust manifolds have been off but engine hasn't been apart. steel head gaskets and intake gaskets still present.
Buick stopped using the french locks some time in 1966 and went to a lock washer on the manifold bolt. There should not be ex manifold gaskets on there. Steel intake gaskets from Fel Pro have been a common replacement for years. I'll guess steel head gaskets were phased out over the years. An early head gasket could be steel (Victor?) but composition became more popular as the years went on. Buick painted the engine after assembly, therefore, paint on gaskets. Alt brackets were put on afterwards, so no engine paint on them or the 2 head/bracket bolts. If you disassemble, the bearings will have date codes.
thanks for the info. So far my engine meets all that criteria, right down to the paint and the lock washers on the exhaust manifold bolts.
while were at it, please listen to this video and tell me if you hear anything abnormal besides the exhaust leak. My bionic ears tend to filter out engine noises assuming they are undesired background noise.
I don't hear any abnormal actual engine noises, but sounds like you've either got a p/s whine or the alternator bearing is going out.
It has that nailhead "heartbeat", and I agree with the "whine" being the only thing of small concern.
BTW, I have my 2x4 carb and manifold off. Do you still need that bellcrank? If so, I will take mine off, make one and send it to you, just PM me your address so I can pop it in the mail when I git-R-dun. (the screw was crosscut staked and I could not access it while on the car/manifold)
That would be wonderful. just let me know how much to send you. if you have a factory kickdown bracket on your setup I would love some detailed pics and possibly some measurements.
Mine is manual, so no kickdown. I'll make the bellcrank and send it to you. If you like it and it works, make a donation to the board.
