Originally Posted by
carmantx
Ok Colin, you can disagree on cfm if you want.
first rule I learned when I started working on Buicks was to toss out all my Chevy building knowledge. Buick is a complete different engine design and can't be built like a Chevy. I don't think that's a bad thing myself. But, what works on a Chevy doesn't work on a Buick. Cubic inch isn't just cubic inch. The design of the Buick head is such that the airflow volume is much greater. It needs more air to be efficient. I am not an engineer and cannot give you specifics, but there are many articles that can explain to you. That is why the Buick division had Rochester design and build an 800 cfm quadrajet for all 455 engines from 71 to 76. Not just the race cars. No Chevy quadrajet was this large. Chevy design didn't need the air flow the Buick did. Pontiac ram air 455's got the big carb, and even had other modifications.
yes, in the older days, I drag raced big block Chevys with a 650 carb. Plenty of fuel for that engine. Not near enough for a big block Buick. In carbs, it is better to be too small, than too large for just cruising. It feels good with smaller carb because you aren't needing more air for mild driving. If, however, you ever want to feel the potential of the big block Buick then give it the air it wants.
10's of thousands of Buicks can't be wrong. And the group I learned from build and drive the fastest Buicks on the planet.
so if you want more information, do some research on the head design and air flow characteristics on the Buick. But make sure it is a Buick person you study from.
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