Posting this for a friend who has an out-of-commission '75 f/s Buick Convertible that needs some TLC to get back in service. Apparently the head gasket is on its way out (not sure which side) and the exhaust manifold has a 'puk-puk-puk' crack. Could probably stand a new timing set and some fresh lifters, and shoot, as long as the heads are off, a quick valve job. They'd even consider a 4-Bbl. to replace the two-holer, and mebbe getting the local muffler shop to hang some duals, but it ran strong enough for rush hour without it. So to the question: Are there readily available parts from earlier pre-smog models that will fit the '75 without a lot of complication? (i.e. maybe some smaller chamber heads, a pre-egr intake and a Q-jet, along with some of the earlier exhaust manifolds) If there aren't, or they force too much compromise, what's the good-guy shopping list for machine work or replacement parts? Anything specific to avoid??? Many thanks in advance
350 engines from 68-80 are all the same. Sounds like your friend needs to do a rebuild. Did you do a compression check? If you have less than 110-115 psi, your engine is worn out. For a proper rebuild expect to spend $1200-1500 on the engine. I would suggest going with a 4bbl intake set-up. Also, install a HEI set-up too.
