.060 over, is it really that big of an issue?

Discussion in 'Small Block Tech' started by arrone, Oct 14, 2004.

  1. arrone

    arrone Active Member

    I have a 73 block that had been worke .030 over before and it needs to be worked again. I have see all the posts about these enginges have thin wall cylinders. Is .060 over that much of an issue on a daily driver with no extras? Provided there are no major flaws in the casting of the block, would it survive, or is it just too much no mater what? What about increasing the compression to to the 10:1 variety? I am not a great mechanic, but is the extra three thousanths of an inche really that much of a reinforcment. I have gotten all the information i have ever need from this board, and would just like to thank everyone for the info.
     
  2. Stage2Scott

    Stage2Scott Well-Known Member

    didnt work for me-ran hot at 8.5 to one, overheated constantly at 10 to 1, also at the track with sticky tires block was "flexible" enough that the right rear corner seal of the oil pan gasket to the rubber seal would tear loose and begin leaking after 10 or so passes and 3k of street miles. just a bad idea.
     
  3. sbbuick

    sbbuick My driving scares people!

    You might just want to get another block. Is taking chances with your time and $$ worth it?

    Although I do believe that someone offers pistons in .040 over.
     
  4. arrone

    arrone Active Member

    wish .040 over was an option. engine guy said 50 might, but probably 60 to clean it up.
     
  5. TXGS

    TXGS Paint by numbers 70 GS 455 4spd

    I think you should look for another block also. Good luck!
     
  6. 12lives

    12lives Control the controllable, let the rest go

    what is wrong and why does it need to be cleaned up? Is there scoring? hourglass?

    Are you looking for more power?

    - Bill
     
  7. arrone

    arrone Active Member

    looks like the owner before me never changed the oil. all i saw was just wear. my engine guy is highly recomnded for the area. He admits he's not up on Buicks, but would like to try. Plus he owes me a favor. We just wanted the engine for a grocery getter. stock cam, 2bbl intake, no headers, no racing, no fun. Just gotta get there. My husband is leaving it up to me. I would really apreciate any input.
     
  8. bobc455

    bobc455 Well-Known Member

    For a stock rebuild that won't really be raced, then I would think it is fine. If you are really concerned, a sonic check will tell you how much meat is left.

    -Bob Cunningham
     
  9. Buick_350X

    Buick_350X Guest

    Id just run a hi flow water pump, a good after market aluminum radiator [used is fine / big 80 something V8 truck car or other] and run dual electric fans [used is fine also]

    You should be alright as long as you are not racing every day and upgrade the cooling a bit for daily stop n go traffic.
     
  10. benderbrew

    benderbrew Well-Known Member

    Ya Scott it's true you had some leaking oil issues but you raced that thing, drove it all over the place and it suvrived, right? Hey, I have 6 or 7 of your 60 over pistons, anybody interested?
     
  11. staged70

    staged70 RIP

    I would get another block , they are not that hard to find .
     
  12. 12lives

    12lives Control the controllable, let the rest go

    I do not see where you say what engine this is. 350, 455, ????

    - Bill
     
  13. arrone

    arrone Active Member

    Its a 350. This is the 350 forum isn't it? It's a small block buick 350 that would probably have to go .060 over to be functional. Anyone got a good block? Cheap.
     
  14. Nevada Boatail

    Nevada Boatail Well-Known Member

    Going from .030" to .060" is pretty significant on this engine. I would too look for another block. If you can find one that can be done to .030" over, you already have the pistons for it! Also, the difference is 30 thousanths of an inch not 3, if it were it wouldn't matter.
     
  15. 12lives

    12lives Control the controllable, let the rest go

    You can probably get a very good running 350 for what you will pay for a block and machine/assembly work. Check this site and post a "parts wanted" thread. Also you can contact BOPCONNECTION on this board, he usually has some nice engines FS. My 2 cents....

    - Bill
     
  16. Bluewhale13

    Bluewhale13 Member

    350 Block

    If you can't find a engine block locally try contacting Ken Reeves at Whetabelt Antique Auto. He is located in Carrier, OK and specializes in Buicks I've dealt with him many times and he's always had good used parts at reasonable prices. His number is 580-855-2449.
     
  17. arrone

    arrone Active Member

    Thanks to everyone. It was suggested to me that I swap to a small block Chev. I don't think I could live with that. I have the heads that have been worked and ready for the Buick and besides, I like the buick. I have the engine that is still in the car but i have to do a quick swap so I guess I'll need a new block. Once again , thaks for all the info.
     

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