The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network - View Single Post - Thoughts of swapping in an Olds 455 w/400 trans in '64?

**truckster** · 05-19-2017, 11:51 PM

Same things as any other engine. Compression test if possible. Check the condition of the oil (appearance, smell, feel). If it's already pulled try turning it over by hand and see if it turns freely (spark plugs out).

The 455 is a great torque monster and near bulletproof. And the last TH400 I had mated to a 455 shifted so smoothly you almost couldn't tell where the shift points were. You'll definitely have a grin on your face when you put your foot in it. The grin might diminish slightly when you're sitting next to the gas pump.

05-19-2017, 11:51 PM	#2
truckster Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Orem, Utah Posts: 7,843	Re: Thoughts of swapping in an Olds 455 w/400 trans in '64? Same things as any other engine. Compression test if possible. Check the condition of the oil (appearance, smell, feel). If it's already pulled try turning it over by hand and see if it turns freely (spark plugs out). The 455 is a great torque monster and near bulletproof. And the last TH400 I had mated to a 455 shifted so smoothly you almost couldn't tell where the shift points were. You'll definitely have a grin on your face when you put your foot in it. The grin might diminish slightly when you're sitting next to the gas pump.