Cracked Block

[InvictaMP]

I am new to the forum but could use some help. Doing a complete frame-off on a 61 Invicta. Have had the car for seven years and finally decided it was a long term keeper. The 401 has always ran great. no smoke, very slight lifter tick on one side,have driven it reliably on several 150 mile round trips. When I started this project I didnt think I had an engine problem but as it turns out I have an external crack between two freeze plugs near the starter and a badly worn cam. My questions are:

Will a 61 dynaflow bolt up to 65 401 from a riviera? Anyone know where I could get a 61 block for a 401 at a decent price?

Thanks in advance.

[Buford26]

1963 was the last year for the Dynaflow. You can bolt a '64-'66 ST400 trans to a '57-'63 engine using a adapter, but you can't bolt a '64-'66 engine to a Dynaflow without having the end of the crankshaft machined larger. You could also swap the engine/trans from the '65 and get a better trans.


http://www.ebay.com/itm/Buick-nailhe...item1e6d478c29

[InvictaMP]

I had heard something similar about the crankshaft. Does the bolt pattern of the 61 dynaflow match the 65 401 block? It was suggested by someone that I could use the crankshaft out of the 61 in the 65 401 block during the rebulild? Thanks for the feedback and information.

Mark Parker

[Buford26]

Yes, the transmission bolt pattern is the same for '57-'66 so it should work with the original crankshaft.

[bhambulldog]

I just recently learned of this method of repair.
http://www.locknstitch.com/repair_cr...gine_block.htm

[telriv]

I recommend & use Lock-N-Stich. I go one step further to guarantee NO leaks. I use epoxy & fill to the bottom of the big freeze plugs on the side of the block. A permanent repair.

[InvictaMP]

Thanks for all the feedback guys. Does anyone have personal experience with the Lock n Stiche product? I am curious since I wasnt having any crack related issues with the motor prior to starting the restoration.

Mark