What was the problem with the Pontiac 455 engine?
While the 455 allowed Pontiac racers to remain competitive with larger-cube engines of other makes, reliability issues in race applications were common. The area required to accommodate 3.25-inch-diameter main journals created excessive friction and was difficult to properly lubricate at high speed.
Where does the oil go in a Pontiac engine block?
Oil is collected in a sump at the rear of the oil pan. It’s drawn in, pressurized, and dispersed by a positivedisplacement rotary pump that’s driven by the camshaft. The oil is filtered before it passes across the rear of the block and into a machined galley that runs parallel to the crankshaft on the left side.
What kind of engine block do I need for a 1974 Pontiac?
When selecting a block for your build, a complete running engine makes a suitable candidate. I found this 1974 400 locally for $250 and confirmed that it retains its original 4.12-ci bore after removing the cylinder heads. With some hunting, you can likely find a similar bargain.
Are there performance parts for the Pontiac engine?
Numerous performance parts are available for the Pontiac engines (except the 301), Oldsmobile, and, as you probably are well aware, the Chevrolet engine. The 455 Oldsmobile engine bolts in right in place of the 403; the 350 Chevrolet engine bolts in right in where the 305 resides. By 1981, performance was all but gone.
While the 455 allowed Pontiac racers to remain competitive with larger-cube engines of other makes, reliability issues in race applications were common. The area required to accommodate 3.25-inch-diameter main journals created excessive friction and was difficult to properly lubricate at high speed.
Oil is collected in a sump at the rear of the oil pan. It’s drawn in, pressurized, and dispersed by a positivedisplacement rotary pump that’s driven by the camshaft. The oil is filtered before it passes across the rear of the block and into a machined galley that runs parallel to the crankshaft on the left side.
Numerous performance parts are available for the Pontiac engines (except the 301), Oldsmobile, and, as you probably are well aware, the Chevrolet engine. The 455 Oldsmobile engine bolts in right in place of the 403; the 350 Chevrolet engine bolts in right in where the 305 resides. By 1981, performance was all but gone.
Which is the best engine block for a Pontiac V-8?
Its robust main saddles and thick deck surface are among the many features designed to improve rigidity and durability. Original 400 and 455 blocks are the most popular for modern performance builds up to 600 hp or slightly more. When selecting a block for your build, a complete running engine makes a suitable candidate.