new 67 California GS 340 to 455????

[67californiaGS]

Hey guys I just scored a nice original 67 California that needs some work but is a nice original driver and complete. [img]graemlins/banana.gif[/img] I guess the California is really a skylark with GS badges so a 455 TH400 swap is in order. I was wondering what's required with this swap.

For starters I need different engine frame brackets??

The Rad looks kind of small?? Smaller then a 70 skylark?? Will the big Rad from this year fit the core support??

Since it has the TH300 with electric kickdown and switch on throttle bracket. I think the TH400 would be pretty easy???? Like to go switch pitch [img]graemlins/beers.gif[/img]

How hard is to find a corporate 8.5 for the A body?

What rear gears did the California usually come with??

Thanks!

[BUICKBABE]

I have a 65 lark that was an original 300 ci. I put a 455 in it recently and as far as the frame brackets go you can get them at ta performance. I just had a guy weld in new motor mounts instead and it fit quite well. My original rear gears were 2.78 and I went with a 12 bolt with auburn posi and dutchman axles, the gears are now in the 3.42 range. I also had my original 2 core rad 4 cored to help the cooling. hope that helps.

[Ettrup]

Hi "Babe"
What did the weight of the 455 do to the handling of your car? I run a 65 lark with the original 300 engine. I have swapped the front sway bar with a 1 1/4" and fitted a rear 1" unit. Also put in PU bushings in the rear, and now I have a really smooth handling car that can use a little more power. I was thinking of a 350 or 401 but a 455 is tempting...