>why do you think GM sold the thing to the Brits?
Because it was cheaper to cast block of iron than aluminum!
?Anyway, these Buick engines are rare since not too many units went into
?production.
If you consider 500,000 units "not too many". These engines are still fairly
common in California self serve yards for under $150 complete.
> To make them fit you need a special intake (either for an
>SU configuration or a low profile for American 4 barrel down-draft.)
The manifold for the 4bbl is available through most speed shops. I
can't remember the manufacturer but the model was 7001. This manifold
uses a split runner design which is supposed to help low end torque.
With a holly 4bbl and a low (pretty low) profile air cleaner you
should be OK on hood clearence.
BTW, apparantly there are still MGB GT V8 parts available, like
radiators and headers, which help simplify the swap and make it
look more stock (or at least less boodgy).
>Incidentally, I don't think you'll gain all that much. . . The Buick
>aluminum block was strong for the '60's but it is not up to spec for
>today. I would suggest at looking at a more modern V-6 swap.
I disagree!!! These motors were offered in state of tune up to
200 HP with 10.5:1 compression. There was even a turbocharged version.
I have never read anything to suggest these motors have any significant
problems for hipo applications. You can bore and stroke them up to
300 cubic inches as well. The Rover version is not all that different
from the BPOE engines either. If you can find a good Buick/Olds/Pontiac
(yes Pontiac too, although not many) use it. I would prefer the Rover
block myself since it seems to have a nicer casting, a place to attach a
windage tray, and better lookin heads but there is nothing wrong with the
Buick motors. You probably want to stay away from the Olds version because
it has a different head design which makes the motor wider across the banks.
V6? Bahhh!!!
--
Frank Marrone at marrone@optilink.dsccc.com
1965 Sunbeam Tiger B9471116
|