Differences between a '76 455 and a '71 455?

[raugusti]

Are there any significant differences between a '76 455 and a '71 455, other than the HEI distributor?

I'm working on cleaning up my father-in-laws mini car hoard. Amongst the cars are a '71 Electra 4 door hardtop and a '76 Electra 4 door hardtop. Both have 455 motors. I have this vague notion of keeping one of the engines and transmissions for a street rod or custom project in the future. Perhaps trying to wedge the 455 and 400 trans in the body of a '54 Roadmaster I have.

Thanks

Scott in Colorado

[Dr. Frankenbuick]

I would keep the 71 for a hot rod. The 76 had open chamber heads and very low compression as a result. I would use the 76 block and 71 heads if building a race engine. The 76 block was 9-10 pounds heavier then the earlier blocks.

[bob k. mando]

the 76 carb likely has bigger bores. compare them to the 71. early BBBs were OEM rated at 750cm while more recent ones were 800cfm.

76 block will be heavier duty and have SOME oil mods ( like the larger dia pickup ) on it already. look up the oil mod thread, you will want to verify your pump gear clearance at a minimum.

71 won't have near as much emissions crap up top, will probably have the better cam, definitely has better pistons.

there are ( i think ) three different depth water pumps. whichever engine you decide to use the accessories from, be sure to use that water pump so you don't have pulley alignment issues.

HEI distro can be used in either block.

and if you decide to use the 71 heads on the 76 block, be careful of the larger water passages in 76 block.

http://www.teambuick.com/forums/show...6374#post26374


http://www.buickperformanceclub.com/page1.htm

[raugusti]

Thanks guys!
Really good information to know. And the Buick Performance site looks like a good place to waste a few hours!

Scott