69 Olds 455 in 1964 Buick Wildcat

[Todd82TA]

Hey guys...

I almost feel like this is sacrelidge by even asking this year... but I have the chance to get a well preserved 64 Buick Riviera Wildcat, with a bad motor and bad transmission (motor is a 401). Now, while I do fully intend to keep the motor and transmission in the garage, and eventually put it back in the car... I would really like to enjoy this car NOW.

That said, I've got a 1969 Oldsmobile 455 big block with a lot done to it. Joe Mondello cam, "C" heads, huge intake and exhaust valves (even larger than what came on the 68 Hurst Olds), nodular crank, TRW forged pistons with a .030 overbore, and a bunch of other great stuff.

So... this motor is sitting all pretty on an engine stand, and I know it's awkward to drop an Olds motor into a Buick, but I'd really like to drive this car around and it all depends on whether or not this motor will fit in it. So there's my question... will a 1969 Oldsmobile Big Block fit into a 1964 Buick Riviera Wildcat? And with that, will it be able to bolt up to the existing Th-400? It's damaged apparently, but I'm guessing it's probably a switch pitch and I figure if I can rebuild that I will. Otherwise, I don't mind getting a late model BOP Th-400.

Let me know...



Here's my motor in case anyone cares:




Oh yeah, I have since cleaned up the garage! hah....


Thanks guys...

[telriv]

1st. off a '64 Riv should have come with a 425 stock. 2nd. the original '64 trans. was a TH400 but not a switch pitch in the 1st. year. Motor mounts & locations are totally different, including the way they bolt to the frame. The trans. bellhousing is totally different. You will need a center sump oil pan. I don't know if the Olds engines had a center sump. If you look over, under around & through this will be a pretty extensive undertaking. Not saying it can't be done. It all depends upon your fabrication skills. Anything can be done given the proper input & tenacity.
Just my thoughts.

Tom T.

[kimb82]

I am currently undertaking this type of project right now. I am installing a 74 Buick 455 into my 64 lesabre. I had to get rid off the blown 300 ci. I had no problem mounting the ST400 to the 455, but the nailhead trans are a different bellhousing I think. I purchased a set of frame mounts from TA Performance. I believe they are Part # TA 1820b. they do sit further forward on the crossmember. I have yet to weld them in, because I do not feel comfortable welding something that might end up in my lap if I mess them up. I plan on fabricating my own exhaust so I do not know if the stock manifolds will fit. The rear sump oil pan will fit, if you use the TA frame mounts. It does sit considerably higher so a low profile air cleaner will probably have to be used. I plan on converting to an electric water pump, and electric fans to get the radiator to fit in the stock location. Any other questions feel free to ask.
http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...2/100_1383.jpg

[bob k. mando]

I had no problem mounting the ST400 to the 455

the 300 has the BOP bell housing just like the 340/350/400/430/455 all do. the Nail trans bell is different.

[Todd82TA]

Thanks guys, I appreciate it! Yeah, I'm hoping I don't have to do too much fab work. I've got a spare th400 if I need it.

I actually have a Toronado intake on it, so it should clear. I've also got all of the Toronado accessories too, so if it sits further forward, I should still be able to get everything to fit easily.


We'll see if I get the car. if I can get it, then I'm going to go for it.


Thanks!!!