Topic: Operation TATA

[N PRGRES]

Aus.  I looked this last weekend I can't find any numbers on the block on the front of the engine block, so I was going to wait to pull it and see if I could find some then.  455....hmmmm I'll be happy to have the bigger motor but bummed that it's not numbers matching like I originally thought.  

Either way I know work has been done to it since when it is running it's not a stock idle.

So my question is what code am I exactly looking for to verify what it is?  And what is the difference in an Olds 455 as sopposed to a Pontiac 455?

[Wallington]

It's a tricky one. A few extra cubes and possibly an earlier performance core but in a collectable car where originality is what scores the points and values. Bit like changing the nose, it's your car so if you're happy with it its great, but come time to part with it, perhaps not so.

If you can't see the cast on displacement then its a sign its probably not a 403 and a much earlier engine, these didn't appear until '77 on block sides so should be on a '79 engine.

On the front of the engine block where the oil filler spout goes should be a casting number, 557265 and 4B for 403. Also measure the base of the inlet manifold, 12" for small block, 14" for big block.

Some useful info here too including other casting ID's:

http://www.442.com/oldsfaq/ofblk.htm

[N PRGRES]

Thanks ill look tonight

[N PRGRES]

I have a number just to the drivers side of the oil fill spout that says 396021F that's the only number up there. Then on the heads I have a E 403 686.  By the distributo is a 103. I can't see anything on the drivers side of the block

[N PRGRES]

No sure where to measure I can get 12 and 14

[Wallington]

E Heads    '68 - '70  455  77,80 403686   455's in general, with 442/Toro's
                                     having big valves.


F  block  '68 - '70   455   396021   Common big block. Stick type F (sans serif).

F block   '70 - '72   455   396021   Common big block. Serif type F. Two vertical and a base serif.

[N PRGRES]

Wow so it looks like thats a 455 in there?!

[RENOVATIONS]

A) Congratulations

or

B) Sorry about that



Take your pick 

[N PRGRES]

Well I think A is more in tune, now I don't feel the pressure to go 100% stock plus I got it for so  cheap it's not a huge deal that it's not numbers matching

[N PRGRES]

So this throws a wrench in things.  Since it's no longer numbers matching the value is pretty much gone.  So now do I keep it a TATA or go a different direction???

[RENOVATIONS]

Opinions may vary but even if the numbers matching engine is gone, I'd still consider it a TATA

[N PRGRES]

Yeah I know thats one of my struggles although even if I keep it a TATA it won't be close to stock

[N PRGRES]

Well I did also drop off the control arms today to get the bearings removed.  I hope to get them blasted this weekend!

[Martin]

Looking good ! I was at that stage last year. Putting the front springs back in was fun. I had to borrow a spring compresor to get the job done. I like to save pictures I find on the forums for refrence and Ideas here is one I found I think you will like.

I Really like the paint on your car!!   It gives your Tenth a  subtle Resto-mod look    .....Here's my Tenth.

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[Wallington]

I say still go the restoration as planned....but with a beefy 455 disguised as stock 403 under the hood with factory brackets and Corporate Blue paint!