1965 Buick Riviera engine swap?

Discussion in 'Classic Buicks' started by psychostang, Jan 9, 2021.

  1. psychostang

    psychostang Member

    Hi, I'm thinking about swapping the 401 Wildcat engine in my 1965 Buick Riviera, for a 400 series engine 1967 thru 1969. Has anyone performed this swap before. How different are the engine mounts. Thanks. :)
     
  2. psychostang

    psychostang Member

    Well, I've only had 1 response on another forum. Suppossedly the 400 engine sits just a little higher than the wildcat engine. I'll have to put this on the back burner for now.
     
  3. 66electrafied

    66electrafied Just tossing in my nickel's worth

    It would be a fair bit of work, the bolt pattern to the transmission is different, the starter is in a different location, the exhaust runs are slightly different, and the cooling system is opposite in orientation to the original Nailhead. Motor mounts are different but can be done. You'd be better off using the later mounts and cutting them in. The other thing that is different is the location of the steering gear in relation to the oil pan. Most Nails have a centre sump, the later versions are rear sump, so the steering gear gets in the way.
     
  4. psychostang

    psychostang Member

    If I go this route, the trans would be a 2004R, which is BOP. So that shouldn't be a problem. Will have to check on the exhaust manifolds. Should I get the 400's engine and chassis side mounts? I will have to investigate the oild pan situation. Made need a custom pan. Thanks for your input. :D
     
  5. John Codman

    John Codman Platinum Level Contributor

    You will get better performance, but I suspect that it will devalue the car significantly, and will be a lot of work.
     
  6. psychostang

    psychostang Member

    Hi John. Thanks for your input. This car is a mish mash of parts as it is. Plus it really needs a frame off restoration, to have any significant value. Some people may not like it, but some people may as there are more parts for the 400 series of engines than the Wildcate series. Plus, with the 2004r installed the car will be better suited for long distance driving, ex: reduced engine wear and much better fuel economy.
     

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