hey guy's i currently have a 455 buick motor in my 86 monte ss have some small mods still looking for more horsepower i have a chance to buy an 73 455 with 69 stage 1 heads but not sure how to identify the heads can anybody help me ??
Jim, I'm pretty sure there was no difference in the heads on the 69 Stage1. They were standard 400 heads carrying the same casting #'s The increase in HP on the 69 Stage1 came from the cam, valvesprings, and distributor and carb differences. In 70 the 455 Stage1 got 455 heads that were opened up to accept valves that were 1/8" bigger on the intake and exhaust. They still had the same casting #'s. The only way to be sure you have 70 and up Stage1 heads is to pull them off, and measure the valve sizes. It is possible to convert any 400-430-455 head to Stage1 valve sizes. Ask if this was done. Still the only way to tell for sure is to look inside.
Jim- You might want to start by at least verifying what year heads are on the motor. Check here for a list of casting numbers by year. 1972 and up aren't worth as much, performance wise, as '71 and down.
