1949 Roadmaster 320

[OLDBUICK]

Hello,

I recently got a 49 Roadmaster sedanette in bad shape. It doesn't run. Since the car came without the valve cover, Im assuming there was something wrong.

1. What kind of torque/power can I expect? Any issues jumping on the highway?

2. Reliable?

3. If I could find one locally, would any 320 work?

4. Tips?

Thanks,
Raul

[firstofeight]

Raul, welcome,

I have a '50 that I drive often. Is the '49 reliable? Well, not like a 2009. But there is no reason it can not be made reasonably reliable. Any 320 starting with 1948 will work. I think the highest HP is the '52 with 4 barrel carb at 165 or so. ALL Buicks have lots of torque.

Does it turn over ? If so, I would determine why it does not run and fix that. Could be something simple.

Let us know. We like pictures!!

Ben

[bob k. mando]

1. What kind of torque/power can I expect? Any issues jumping on the highway?


Straight 8s can be built for power ( see the Saltcat thread ) but they tend to be low rpm and not that much horsepower. new from the factory the 320 would have been rated ~150 hp.

if you want to work on the engine Bob is hosting the 1952 shop manual which is the last year of the 320.

http://www.teambuick.com/reference/l...shop/index.php

if you decide to go for a v8 swap, you should probably look at the 364 - 425ci Nailhead. the Straight 8 engine compartments are pretty narrow for a v engine, which is the whole point of the wonky Nail valve arrangement, so they could squeeze the exhaust runners in tight to the block.

the 57 Nail was 364ci and rated at ~250hp. it can obviously be built for much more.

[Buick Guy]

If you decide to scrap the 320, and can get somebody to bring it to Speedwook on the Salt I'd gladly haul it back to Montana. Parts are always good. Doug

[OLDBUICK]

Thank you for the welcome. Im no stranger to buicks as I've had several. I still have a 65 Riviera and 57 Special in addition to the 49. I just don't have any experience with the straight 8s.
I'm caught between a rebuild of engine/tranny or look for a nailhead. Since I don't know anything about the 320. I thought I'd better ask.
I'm thinking engine,transmission, and brakes first.

Thanks for the help.

[LONG]

would love to have a 320.

[Jenz38]

Nice Model ... 👍,
i would try to rescue the 320...,
the Engine turns free ? ..not rusted valve train ?
then i would pull the head for an inspection of the
Pistons and walls, if it looks useable then its the reason for a further look into the deeps of the Oil pan for a condition check of the bearings...
Good luck in every case .
And : more Pics are welcome 😉