455

[85 Cutlass Brougham]

I would talk to the machine shop before you strip it down. Some shops prefer to do the teardown themselves so they can see what is bad inside the engine. I would also try to find someone in your area who knows Buick engines and see who they use for machine work. Many times, there are some shops that are better than others with a specific make of engine, and there are also shops with reputations for shoddy work that you would want to stay away from.

 

[Joono]

Good advice, definitely. I don't pick it up 'till Thursday, but it'll come soon. Thanks again, everyone. Keep checking this thread; I'm sure I'll have loads more questions!

 

[Joono]

So, how do I evacuate the A/C system? That little service port definitely had pressure, so what do I do with it? No need for it, weekend driver on the border with the great white north.

 

[dan2286]

So, how do I evacuate the A/C system? That little service port definitely had pressure, so what do I do with it? No need for it, weekend driver on the border with the great white north.

If the car is still drivable, take it to a garage and have them take it out. It takes a special machine that many people do not have.

 

[Joono]

Yup, it's in no condition to drive; hell, half the body is in my basement right now. Is there somewhere you can rent this deal from?

 

[dan2286]

Yup, it's in no condition to drive; hell, half the body is in my basement right now. Is there somewhere you can rent this deal from?

I dont think so. I am almost positive that you need a certification to legally do a/c work.

 

[Joono]

Well damn.

 

[dogsht]

Joono, Where are you located? The links listed are great and a better source of info for that motor and putting it in your car than this site. Their is even an area specific to putting the Buick 455 into the Regal on that site. You can see pics and talk to others who have or are doing it. Buick 455 for $50 is a steel even if its only a core. Buick shops such as Automotive & Machine (i think) in Hebron KY will pay you a lot more than that for your core. I had a Buick 455 BTW and love that motor for a hot and streetable pump gas motor. More expensive to build but way better than a sbc for that purpose if you don't mind spending more to get more.

 

[85 Cutlass Brougham]

As for the A/C, yes. It is illegal if you get caught venting R-12 into the atmosphere. However, if you were to "accidentally" open the system, and the refrigerant "accidentally" escaped, and no one saw it...

As for fixing an A/C system, it is illegal to buy R-12 without a license, but not 134a. Anyone can buy 134a and the tools to use it. I have fixed several A/C systems with 134a and I have no formal training in anything.

 

[dogsht]

Find a shop that has the license and use the R-12. You will have a better colder AC system. Also why waist the R-12 if you don't have to. The system is seperate from the engine so it can be kept. I did this on my 442. I have set it up to run with the new engine yet but it is still charged.