I'm attempting to descide on what motor to get for my Rod. I feel it should be Buick powered since its a 'Buick'. If I choose a Nailhead, should it be a 401 or 425? What makes one a better choice than the other? What should I watch out for? I'm building the car for street use, so maximum power is not essential. Although I still want it to be a quick mover, possibly capable of towing from time to time. Don't want to empty the bank account to fuel it either (if thats possible). All advise and suggestions appreciated. Edward
engine Basicly they are the same, both have forged steel rods,& crank. The pistons are the same except for bore size and compression ratios. Pistons can be had in 9.5 and 10.25 comp. ratios. the iol system is the same. physically they are the same. 401 has 445 ft lb torque and 425 has 465 ft lb. at 2800 rpm if I remember right. I am with you, go with the nail head. there is nothing that looks as awsome as a nailhead in a street rod, specially if it is dressed out. :Brow: :Brow: :Brow:
just depends on where you get them. iv seen complete motors go for $500 or so all over ebay. sometimes you can even score a tranny with them. and i dunno about all years..but pretty sure all 401's only came with 10.25:1..and im sure the same is for the 425. i just know iv only seen that figure for the 401.
In 1966 there was an option for a Q-jet and 11.0:1 compression on a 401 for the A-body only I believe. The Q-jet might have been offered on the 425 in the big cars but not with the compression boost as I recall. Just going from memory here.
