Is it easy to crank out good horsepower/torque out of a low-compression buick 455? If so, what could you do for starters to get a good start on increasing the #'s? Just wondering. Don't have one, but I heard that if you find a low-compression 455, you can increase the numbers well by working it over. Your thoughts and info.? Thanks in advance! -Cody
Hey Cody. I think there are a couple of ways to help out the power in the low compression engines. I'd do this package all at once if possible. Earlier heads. Better ports, smaller chambers. Earlier stock intake if money is an issue (and when isn't it), B4b, Performer or SP1 if bucks and budget allow. Depending on the rest of the combo, an appropriate cam. Bigger isn't always better. An earlier Quadrajet, prior to the smog applications. Of course, the above assumes you can get by the smog Nazis in Iowa. Before you lay down any dollars for a cam/spring/lifter package, talk directly to the manufacturer. They know their product line best and can take your info on heads, valve sizing, gear ratio, tire size, transmission, clutch/converter, etc and get the best cam and kit for you. Be realistic when you are talking to them. If your car will be a daily driver, have a stock or close to stock converter and stock exhaust manifolds tell them that. Believe me, you won't be happy trying to live with a huge cam in a relatively stock motor, especially one you drive in traffic every day. Unless you are going all out, be conservative.
Thanks. Like I said, I don't have a low-compression 455, but if I was to get one for a good deal/price, might consider a swap for the 231 V6. Any one elses opinions/ideas?o No: Thanks -Cody
