Hello to all. I recently came into a nice 66 Skylark convertible, power everything, the original 300/2bbl with 146k miles. 2 spd already swapped for a 3 spd . Sadly, the motor had been modded over the years. High miles, .60 over and 4 bbl leaking oil everywhere with very low compression. Goal is long hauler for family trips so we choose to go GM 350/330hp HO crate and 700R4. Would have loved to stayed all Buick, but just wasn't practical. Motor and trans are in using OPGI BOP to Chevy frame mounts and slight mod to trans bracket. Drive shaft is out for shortening. We are ready for headers and am looking for suggestions from anyone familiar with this swap. Love the forum!!
Welcome, I'm a huge fan of the 66, I'm restoring a 66 GS vert right now. Not many of us here have a SBC 350 in our Buick, Chevelle headers would work for you. If you're shopping for a full exhaust, be sure to get tailpipes for a 64-67 as they are longer than the 68-72. The 68-72 tailpipes won't reach the rear bumper.
Walt K, Thanks for the Chevelle header and exhaust input. We hated to go SBC, but kept the original 300 in the shop for posterity/future use.
Walt K, You are indeed a huge 66 fan. I am late to the party, but enjoying this build. Am I correct that headers for a 66 Chevelle would be the way to go? Goal is to clear/keep steering (power) stock.
I had a 72 Nova with a misplaced 396 that was too rusty, sold the car kept the motor. I looked for a convertible 66 or 67 Chevelle body for the 396 but found them too expensive or too far gone. I then searched for a 64 Skylark to put the 396 in because I liked the 64's look and it's essentially is the same as a Chevelle. I found a nice one, but quickly decided to go with a Buick 455 after some research. I sold the 396, bought a 455, and had some money left for Buick headers and such. Never regretted staying with the Buick motor especially at car shows. Do what you wish, it is your car, and it is a beautiful car you have whatever propels it. Please don't take this as judgmental, just saying what my experience has been.
Chevelle headers should fit well. Skylark, GTO, and Chevelle frames are the same except the Chev is 2" shorter in the rear, fronts are the same. Try the forums at www.chevelles.net/forum for header recommendations.
Thanks for all the quick responses guys! The car is rust free and well cared for, other than the motor being very tired. My intention was staying all Buick, but went GM turn key for the reliability and accessory fitment right out of the box. At some point, this drive train might find its way into a Chev and be replaced with proper Buick hardware. I know where to come looking! Thanks again for all the help!!
Congrats on the purchase! Fine looking Buick! Glad to hear you went with what is practical for you at the moment.
