What's a good year model engine for oiling systems? Also what update available for the oiling systems? Katie Bible
Well, earlier 455s have smaller oil pick-up tubes, I beleive the '73 to '76 455s have the larger tubes. Also, some head changes were made for cooling and, I think, oiling. The actual oil passages in the latter blocks are larger I think in the later blocks. An earlier block can have these mods done, I should think, by a good machine shop. For oiling mods, a variable pressure regulator is available from TA performance, as well as an entire new, not rebuilt, timing cover/oil pump assembly with oiling mods and other improvements, also from TA
the later block have a 5/8 pickup tube, but you can buy that for $50, and the blocks had bigger passages, but you can drill the early blocks, but really all you need is a booster plate and high pressure spring or an adjustable regulater for the pump. as long as you are getting around 10 psi per 1000 rpm, you will have no oiling worrys.
Katie, These guys are correct,however if you are transplanting a block and or don't care about matching numbers purchase a later model block 73-76 and add hi-perf parts then you won't have to worry about machining larger passages in the block (extra work/cost). Also use earlier heads to bump up compression. As a side note the later blocks probably are in better shape and cheaper. Bill
