I recently became the owner of a 1970 buick lesabre. With the original motor and transmission still in the vehicle. I am currently looking for parts to restore the interior and also gonna go for a stock build with the 455. I've been an automotive technician with toyota for going on 4 years now.
Awesome didn't know any of that. That price tag was really $3739 that's actually kinda cool to know. That means if it were selling today after calculating inflation it would be $26,434.15. I would think it would be more than due to safety and electronics. Could you imagine if buick was still making big blocks? lol. I will have pics sometime next week I'll have to go down to my shop and take some. Oh also currently have the engine apart going through it and all new bearings, gaskets pistons, and rings. Heads are at the machine shop. The block is in my works parts washer. Can you think of anything else i should replace while I'm here?
Welcome from Florida! Can't wait to see pictures. I really like the style and looks of the 70 LeSabres and Rivieras. I've been kinda keeping an eye out for a 70 LeSabre 2-door (non-post) with the 455. My girl's father had one when she was growing up, that his father (a Buick executive) got for him. The family had to sell it off about 20-years ago as no one had the time or money to restore it, or space to store it, back then. It was silver with a black top and interior.
Maby you should upgrade some of the oiling issues that these BBB have. Also the front aluminum timing covers wear out and the oil pump part behind pump gears. Your doing a stock rebuild it seems and not going to be revving this 455 to the moon but still something to think about. Member and Buick motor builder Jim Weiss is the friendliest person to talk to even if it's not about the oil upgrades. The mains and rods need to be on the tight side in clearance. Probably around .0025 max across the board. The oil gears need to be packed with petrolium jelly or vasoline in order to prime it before starting, it won't prime without the gel. I am the worse to give building advice on the BBB but they can't be build loose like a big block Chevy that alot of machine shops work on.
I will definitely email Mr. Wiess about building this 455. Right now I'm kinda tight on money due to Covid a couple of weeks ago. I am happy to say I am back to full health and ready to start on this project.
Bummer you were fighting covid. Glad you feel better.. Take your time and enjoy the BBB torque when your done