My 63 Riv had been sitting around for too long(it had been a running driving car but tired) not being used so it was time for some attention. I am the 2nd owner and it is a numbers matching car,if that means anything nowadays. The owner purchased new in 63 in USA and drove around USA and Canada on holidays then brought it back to Australia and had it converted to RHD. I got it indirectly from him through his nephew who had never driven the car. I did contemplate updating with an LS1/4 speed auto but I don't think I can go that route.That would be reliable but no longer original or traditional. Being a 63 it has the Dynaslow that has to go. I am onto a 65 3 speed ST400 that will need rebuilding and comes with the parts needed to hook up to the 63 401. The motor will need a rebuild and I am looking at USA suppliers on EBay who supply complete engine rebuilding kits. Old Part Source is one group and another is Falcon Performance. They both offer different levels of rebuild kits, pistons,rings,bearings etc and some with valves, push rods, new cam if needed even up to one with Pertronix ignition package. We will pull the engine down to see what is needed but after 53 years I am sure it will be more bad than good. The engine builder who did the 327 in my roadster has done a couple of nailheads (they are RARE here) and is confident that he can get the job done. After all this I am really looking at advice from others who have used these kits and if they are good quality.
http://nailheadbuick.com/enginerebuildparts no need to go anywhere else, don't get a "new" cam unless its something better than stock, Russ will advise.
Talk to Russ Martin (who Torana68 linked to) or Tom Tolesco or TA performance are all good people. Stay away from Eggie pistons (they're not consistent sizes and poorly cast) Comp cams thumper cams are good for na engines. Have fun and post some good nailhead engine porn pics as you build it! Congrats on keeping the LS out of it! "Just because you can put tap shoes on an elephant doesn't mean it can dance!"
Torana I have checked their website and had discussions earlier on Buick stuff. The picture of the engine rebuild kits are is the same as Falcon Performance that I found on EBay. Maybe they source theirs from them. Still early days as we need to pull down engine to see what size overbore pistons are needed and bearings depending on crank condition. I would like a strong engine in it as my 32 roadster and the Hudson are both "mild" engines. Three speed auto should make it a better driver.
um yeah, you can buy a box of parts from anywhere, but they don't have the knowledge to 1. pick the right bits for your needs and 2. help solve your issues if something goes wrong.
I have found everything you need to know, PLUS on V8Buick.com. In fact, I'm now considering other options for my '65 Riv as to do a nailhead correctly is an expensive proposition.
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