Hi, Just got a 1970 88K miles Buick Wildcat 2 door that I'm tearing into. I've got the motor almost out for a rebuild, I was just going to do the heads but upon removing them discovered a nice little hole in one piston. Should have compression tested it I know but it was a cheap car to buy. I'm learning tons from this board and internet sources and decided to do a mild build-up, $$$$ allowing. One quick and dirty question I have, should I spend money porting my (I believe) non-stage 1 heads, or should I try to find some stage 1's? Just wondered how many western Canadians we have, and if they knew of any good shops that have done engine/machine work in Alberta/BC. The more I read the more I am worried Joe Schmoe regular engine rebuilder might screw up my motor. Thanks and Happy New Year people. Corey Oh ya, my screen name comes from my other ride. A lifted, locked, bobbed, dented and thouroghly abused 1980 Toyota p/u rolling on 36's. Peace
Welcome to the board, I can't answer your question, but there are plenty of people here who can. Welcome aboard.:beer
intro welcome to the Buick world my best advice is to have patience I know how you can get carried away with a new project,but take your time and do your research,you definitely have the information you'll need on this site study it well and ask questions and youll learn what works and what doesnt good luck and have fun!:TU: :grin:
Welcome to the Board Corey!:TU: Glad you found us. I think you'll find we have quite a few members from Canada - you should be able to find a reputable Buick engine builder from one of them! In the mean time, get that engine stripped down, so you can be ready to take everything in to be thoroughly cleaned. Then, have the main parts checked for cracks or any other problems. *Figure out a realistic budget and get back with us here, so we can help you decide what your options are. Are you looking for a stock rebuild, mild performance, or ???
I was hoping to get close to the 450 hp range,something to teach the local ricers a thing or two, but I'm not sure what kind of power certain parts will make with the 455 because I am not all learned up yet. I've read that stock this engine in the Wildcat made 370. I am looking in the neighbourhood of $3000 american but I'm slightly flexible. I really get hooped bringing parts across the border. I was thinking of doing a cam and am learning what all the numbers mean but its still pretty greek. I'm not totally sure how to pick one for my application. For sure I need headers as one manifold is cracked all they way around. Need a set of pistons as well. Was thinking of getting TA's sp1 intake. Idealy I'd like a set of aluminum Stage 1 heads but I think thats out of the budget. Thats why I wondered if it was worth it to spend money porting my stock heads or if I should just save for the Stage 1's. Can my heads be converted to fit the bigger valves? Thanks for the warm welcome guys, I look forward to learning lots about my new cruising car. Corey
Nice to see another fellow Canadian on the board Corey. I fully agree that we get "hooped" buying our parts from the U.S. but don't have much of a choice. There are some Canadian suppliers but they just import too so in a lot of cases its simpler to just buy direct. When you're buying from the U.S. just double the listed price and you'll be pretty close to what it will cost to get a part to your door. The exchange on the dollar,duty,and taxes really add up. I'm a long ways from you so can't help with a good engine shop but I've seen some members here from Calgary that might be able to help. Its a little closer anyway. Don't know anyone in Edmonton but have a couple of nephews in Grand Prairie that are into Chevys, if you want I can e mail them to see if they can recommend anyone there. Nice part of the country you live in, haven't been through since I lived in Whitehorse a lot of years ago but do plan a trip up the Alaska highway again in a couple of years. Its been too long! Good luck with your Buick and welcome !
Corey, Welcome to the board. I haven't been to Ft. St John's since 1992 when I got out of the USAF. I was stationed in Fairbanks, AK and drove through your neck of the woods, on the way up in 1991 and back again in 1992. Beautiful country! If any body has the chance to go, by all means, GO!!! I went up in the spring and the scenery is a-one. I came back in March, so I could not see much but a lot of white, but still, it was absolutely gorgeous!! As far as letting a local yokul work on the Buick, NO, it takes a special touch and a little more than just GM V-8 experience. They are a different breed from the Git-Go. Take your time and find some one that knows Buicks in particular. It will be worth your time and effort to search out the best that you can find. If you get any leads, ask about them here. Someone will more than likely know about them and could give you some good advice. Again, welcome to the board. I know you will enjoy the comraderie that is shared here as well as all the info that flows like a good glacier fed river. Take care and God bless. Greg
