I was wandering if anyone out there could give me some advice. I currently own a 69 GS California with under 55k. I'd like to add some balls under the hood and was thinking about putting a 70/71 455 in her. Am I correct for thining that it ought to fit so long as it's a short block? Also, would anyone be selling one.?
Is your car a BB car originally? If so, the 400,430,455 are all the same on the exterior. It'll bolt right in. Here's more info. http://www.buickperformance.com/conversi.htm Go back and edit your profile and add your name to your signature. That way everybody knows who they're talking to. Hope this info helps.
You'd need to change the engine mounts that bolt to the frame, change the front springs, different radiator, and may also have to move the transmission crossmember slightly depending on transmission choice. None of this is terribly difficult and many have converted 350 cars to 455s. There have been several write-ups on doing this, I think George Nenadovich has one of the most thorough on his web page at http://www.buickperformance.com/conversi.htm Though, the 350 can be made to go quicker!
The term "Short Block" refers to to the engine assembly below the heads, i.e. the block, crank, rods, pistons, cam, bearings and a few other odds and ends. A Long Block is A Short Block + the heads, valves, guides, seals, timing chain and cover, oil pump, ect,etc.....may also include intake/exhaust manifolds, carb, and other bolt on accessories such as PS, Alt, Since the 68/69 GS400 motor is basically the same block as a 455" its a definate fit - just the needed hardware to switch from a small block to a long block are necessary and this is basically the same from 68-72 and has been covered in detail many times.
