Im just curious if a 350 has the same oiling issues as a 455. I have a 71 GS 350, im converting to 455. The 350 runs very well, makes no noises at all, seems to have good power. I think its relatively stock but im not sure of that. I also think its the original motor, but i havnt even checked that yet. Dosent really matter, its a good motor, ill just put it on a stand and keep it. Thanks Steve
No. it doesn't, but the oiling system has the same basic layout, so bearing clearances are very important. Buick engines run tighter clearances to keep oil pressure consistent from the front to rear of the block. The 4.55 main bearings are 1/4" bigger than the 350, 3.25" vs 3.00", so the bearing speeds are faster for the 455. The 455 crank center line is even with the pan rail. The 350 is a Y block, the pan rails are below the crank center line, so the 350 block has more support for the mains. The 350 is fine with 10 psi/1000 RPM, while the 455 needs 11-12 psi/1000 RPM. You can spin a 350 reliably to much higher RPM than the 455.
Wow thanks for the information. Im amazed at how many here have so much knowledge. Thanks again, Steve
Like I said. The higher you can spin an engine, the more HP it will make providing it can breathe at the higher RPM. So you can make big HP numbers with a SBB with a big enough cam and intake, or just stick a Huffer on it.
