Everyone was a big help in identifying possibilities for the rebuild of the 455 in my '72 Centurion convt. I'd like to share a summary of the responses. Remember that I was looking to keep things really smooth, but add about 30% more power than stock. Three of these came from the three top recommended experts. Interestingly, they're all very different. I'd most likely be in fantastic shape going with any one of them. Here's what I found: Option #1: From a reputable rebuilder in the area that rebuilds many different kinds of motors, but say they understand how to do Buick motors. I doubt they FULLY understand, but they could probably do an OK job and it would probably be fine. They likely do a great job with "most" engines. Their "performance" shop says - "9.5 compression, 268 Comp Cam, should go from stock 225hp to about 300hp. Add standard duals for another 25, headers for 50." Price is certainly attractive (as well as being convenient), but my concern there is the block honing and oiling system getting the proper professional care. Option #2: Expert #1 - 9.5 compression, mild porting, modify heads for Stage 1 valves, rework chambers, described as "mild cam", use 2 1/2" pipes with extra large mufflers and resonators to keep it quiet. Option #3: Expert #2 - Stage 1 heads, Edelbrock Performer Intake, 9.8 or 10 compression, TA RV12 cam, Shorty headers. Serious street power, but very smooth operation and lots of low end torque. Option #4: Expert #3 - Mild head work, 9.5 compression, "nice street cam" Nice mellow engine with great driveability Comments? Care to guess the experts? Again, the top three are probably all "right" answers.
