I've got a 39 Buick that currently has a 1977 Buick 350 engine in it. I'd like to change the engine to a 1968 400 Buick. I took a few measurements and it seems the engines are very similar. Anyone know if I can do this swap as a "bolt in" ? Thanks, Al
pretty sure the 400 is the "big block" and the 350 is the "small block"....might do some more research.
As I recall, the 400 is part of the 400/430/455 family.....I need to check on that, if I find out different, I'll correct this post. I am certain of the 430/455 connection.... Ray
Shouldn't be that big of a deal. The transmission bolt pattern should be the same. some new motor mounts and maybe some exhaust work. This is hot rodding isn't it ? It's not LEGO's . Fabrication is part of hot rodding , not if it doesn't just bolt together it's too hard to do. go find a 400 and do some measuring. I put a 455 Buick in a 64 Malibu . It took me one weekend to make the mounts and have it running.
If the new engine is complete with exhaust manifolds and accessory brackets (alternator, etc), then you should be able to do the swap, but it won't be a bolt in replacement. And do more measuring, figure out how much longer the new engine is, make sure there's room for it. Since the car probably came with a straight 8 originally, you should be ok, but check for exhaust to steering clearance, etc.
Buick used both big and small blocks in their mid size cars. The 67 Buick Gran Sport had a 400 Buick in it. Hurst olds [same platform as buick mid size] had both 350s and 455s in them. That's why the crossmember has so many motor mount bracket holes in it. Pontiac and Chevy also had the multiple mount holes in the crossmsmber. It was corporate policy to save $$$.... Any GM big or small block V/8s and/or V/6 or straight 6 will be a bolt in with the right factory mounts and brackets.
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