I am planning to rebuild the 350 in my '71 Wagoneer. This AM I noticed this post on ebay: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2403675220&category=33615 It's a rebuilt 72-80 Buick 350, still in crate. My question is how does this engine differ from my 71. Could the compression ratio be lower or could if have better valves and seats for unleade? Or could it have a "smog" cam, if you will. If the price is right, is it worth a go at it? Thanks John
1971 was the first year for the lower 8.5:1 compression ratios. This was a GM corporate policy. Buick also included nickel plated exhaust valves at the same time to allow for unleaded fuel. The '72 engine is nearly identical, just minor year to year production changes. Same heads, pistons, cam, etc. This applies to Buick built models. Don't know if the engines in the Wagoneer are the same. Also, I believe there were some changes to the heads in about '75, so the ad on ebay seems a little confusing with it's claim of a "'72 to '80 version".
