Anyone know if this will fit? Will a '56 331 Hemi fit in a 50 buick? I know they are wide, but want to know before I buy the motor. (which has to be shipped) Orginal plan was to build a 401 for it, but I cant build it or buy it for under 4K-4500. This Hemi is done with a period correct dual quad intake for 4k. Thoughts? The price of the nailhead is about a grand more than I thought it would be Thx, Jason
Only if you plan on going with an early version that has a Dynaflow and is compatible with the torque-tube rear-end. Still not a good idea in my book. (not using a hemi, but trying to stick with the outdated drivetrain in the '50).
Nailhead will cost more up front like you said which makes sense cause it's worth it. What year is you're SP400? If its a 64-66 with the switch pitch convertor it will do great behind a stock 401. Plus the cool factor of a 401 in an old Buick with the hood removed is hard to beat. Sent from my SM-N960U using The H.A.M.B. mobile app
Go with the Buick.Have had both and have no preference as for as the engines go, but Buick in aBuick seems more correct
fyi...a nailhead, a hemi, a caddy even a studey are more than acceptable in an old buick. but no chevies or fords.
I'm gunna keep the 401 either way. Never know when I might find another Buick. I will have the straight 8, dynaflow for sale when I'm done with the swap. Tranny has about 500 miles after rebuild. Motor is tired, but runs good. May have the rearend for sale too, rebuilt with the tranny) Have a 9" I'm debating on putting in as well.....if that's what you mean
I am biased for the Nailheads. ST400 vs SP400 NailheadBuick.com has all the info you need. They have have lots of useful resources and tech info. http://centervilleautorepair.com/te...s-for-the-nailhead-to-get-rid-of-the-dynaflow Sent from my SM-N960U using The H.A.M.B. mobile app
My vote is also for the Nailhead. With the right multi-carb. intake, it would have that look. Might be interested in the Straight 8 if it is a 248. If you decide on putting in the 9 inch, a thread on that with pictures on the install would be cool. I just bought a 40 coupe and looking at rear axle options.
I think the Nailhead would be easier/cheaper to maintain. I have friends with Hemis and they need tinkering a lot. So $4k-4.5K for a rebuilt Nailhead versus buying a Hemi that is "done"...does that mean its rebuilt with no miles or its done meaning it runs? Because if its used you really don't know its condition unless you've done a compression test yourself. You say it needs to be shipped, so I "assume" 1- you haven't seen it in person and checked it out and 2- its used. I could be wrong though. Id still go Nailhead.
331” hemi? No, no and no. Because: There is no replacement for displacement. And: You gain three circus fat ladies on the front bumper. I replaced a Desoto 341” in my ‘53 F100 with a Dodge 318. Life was soooooo much better.
I vote for the nailhead too. I love a hemi but by the time you make it all fit, get steering to fit around that big motor along with other mods I see the 401 being a easier fit and money saver in the long run.
Decided on a 401 with a B&m hydro shift. Ill post pics of the full job. Putting a 9" in as well with 3:71. Should be pretty fun
Good choice. The nailhead will be fun in front of that 9" Sent from my SM-N960U using The H.A.M.B. mobile app
If you have a Dynaflow behind the original straight 8, I would be interested in it. PM me if for sale.
I bought a 65 Electra for the engine and trans. Drove it home and it ran real well. The only negative was a lifter tick when first started cold. Tore down the engine and was amazed to see how worn out it was. It was right about $4000.00 to get it done, so your pricing is pretty close. That's with me doing all the assembly. The 400 transmission was in much better shape, it only needed seals. The clutches and the band looked like new. I'd still go for the nailhead, but the hemi would be cool.