Alternator Bracket 401 Nailhead HELP

Hey all, I'm currently in the middle of a complete engine overhaul for my 1963 Buick Wildcat and one of the brackets on the engine broke. The engine is the stock 401 Nailhead with A/C. I specify that because apparently the bracket is different and the other one won't work. I've had feelers out looking for this bracket but haven't had any luck thus far. I was hoping someone on this site might be able to help me out with information.

 

Yes, the brackets are different. Unless you are not planning to run AC you'll have to get the AC bracket. You might try ebay. There are several guys parting cars that might have what you need. other sources might be Russ Martin, Tom T., Cars, Inc., or CTC Auto Ranch. If you switch to an alternator you might be able to use a '64 large car or '63-'64 Riviera bracket. I'm not sure how the compressor mounts go.

 

Hey Hodge, Is it the bracket that goes on the Right side of the engine connected to the alternator? The compressor sits on top of the Bracket? I'll post a picture of the One I have as soon as I find it.

Jim

 

If I'm looking at the engine from the front of the car it is on the left side of the engine. I tried to take pictures, You can see where it's broken in the first picture. This is the bracket I need.\

 

If you have the broken piece just have it welded back on.

 

Take Tom's advice and have it welded back together. I have One for my 401 and 425. I painted One Green and polished the other One. I'll check and see if I have an extra.

Jim

 

Apparently it's aluminum, so it can't be welded back together

Thanks for checking.

 

It most certainly can!!!!

 

Anyone capable with a Tig can weld that back on with no worries, even a mig with a spool gun can weld that.

 

I've got one. (They're steel) Send me a PM with your phone number and I'll call and we can work out something. It has the two raised ears for the a/c compressor, came off a '63 Riviera.

Ed

 

The One that is broken is Aluminum and can be welded. The Top One is Steel.

Jim

 

if its a 401 with ac its steel
if its non ac then the alt bracket is aluminum
it can be welded either way
any weld shop or even body shop does it
I have them either way as well
Greg
ghildebrand@wi.rr.com

 

We ended up finding a replacement. I don't know whether it could've been welded or not. Personally I think my mechanic is an idiot so this way was faster.