455 fluid change

Discussion in 'Race 400/430/455' started by 70Riv455, Oct 26, 2023.

  1. 70Riv455

    70Riv455 Well-Known Member

    Recently purchased a 1970 Riv with the 455. First thing I want to do is replace fluids. I picked up some PennGrade 10/40 and a WIX (USA Made) filter. Plan on flushing the coolant as well and going with some conventional 50/50. It has the expansion tank should I use it? I am thinking yes, but may need to replace the cap to the 15lbs original with the red stripe? Currently its not in use with some crud in the bottom. Trans is 80/90 I think? Any recommendations on Trans and Diff fluid?
     

    Attached Files:

  2. Briz

    Briz Founders Club Member

    I use the Amsoil high zinc "Hotrod" oil and Wix filters. There has been so quality issues lately with Wix.Use 80/90 gear lube and if you have posi a bottle of the additive. No need to buy 50/50. Get full strength and add your own water.
     
  3. 70Riv455

    70Riv455 Well-Known Member

    Thanks. Yeah I heard of the quality issues with WIX which sucks. Hopefully my USA made ones are ok. We will see. The guy who had it before me put a Fram on with off brand 10/40 semi syn oil
     
  4. LARRY70GS

    LARRY70GS a.k.a. "THE WIZARD" Staff Member

    Absolutely use the overflow tank, there are no downsides to using it. Your current 16 psi cap will work just fine, no need to replace it. I would use an oil that is meant for older engines and flat tappet camshafts. I use Joe Gibbs Driven Hot Rod oil. There are other choices.

    BTW, are you aware that you posted in the Race forum. The Street/Strip Forum would be a better fit. I can move this thread if you want.
     
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  5. BUICKRAT

    BUICKRAT Got any treats?

    Trans is DEX3, 4, or5. I don't even think DEX6 will hurt it. Rear diff. is 80/90, if it has a posi tag, add a tube of stink juice.

    Use the overflow tank. Make sure rad cap is working.

    As long as the penngrade has zinc in it, it should be fine.

    DO NOT over-rev it. You will kill it!
     
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  6. 70Riv455

    70Riv455 Well-Known Member

    Thanks. Yes the Penngrade has zinc in it. Which is much better than what is in there now. Thanks for the tips on the Trans and dif. No over-rev here, I plan to have it last another couple of decades at least!

    Yeah I realized after I posted it was in the Race forum. Would be great if you could move it for me. Obviously I am a newb :)
     
    BUICKRAT likes this.
  7. Waterboy

    Waterboy Mullet Mafia since 6/20

    Sounds like you’re gonna have a blast! Post some pictures of your car please. Beautiful year on my opinion.
     
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  8. 1973gs

    1973gs Well-Known Member

    It's not an expansion tank like in modern cars, it's a coolant reservoir or overflow tank and why wouldn't you want to use it?
     
    Last edited: Oct 27, 2023
  9. 70Riv455

    70Riv455 Well-Known Member

    Here are some pics
     

    Attached Files:

  10. 70Riv455

    70Riv455 Well-Known Member

    The reservoir is not in use right now which is why I asked. Previous owner did not use it for some reason. I thought it should be used.
     
    Last edited: Oct 27, 2023
  11. 68Buick-Jim

    68Buick-Jim Gold Level Contributor

    Love the color! Sweet ride!
     
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  12. 70Riv455

    70Riv455 Well-Known Member

    Thanks!
     
  13. Mark Demko

    Mark Demko Well-Known Member

    Nice color!
     
    70Riv455 likes this.

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