455

Status
Not open for further replies.
Sadly I have yet to see a 455 Regal that has retained the AC. Seems like most people that do the swap are more concerned with straight line acceleration than creature comforts. I'm definately not saying it can't be done though; I have every intention of retaining the AC system on my own Regal when it gets swapped.

Having said that- If you do retain the AC with your 455 swap, please document the process for future reference. :wink:
 
Will do. I think I'm going to attempt to retain it. Hell, why not have A/C? There's a planned move to South Carolina if I get accepted into this program at Clemson, so I might need it!

Anyone know of a place or company that rents the cherry pickers? A friend of mine has one, but I'd have to wait until June to use it...
 
The biggest issue you will face with the A/C is the way GM installed the compressor in a 455. If I remember right, it makes the accessory drive a bit unwieldy. That and a 455 never used an R-4 compressor, they all used axial compressors instead. I am by no means a Buick expert through, there may be a way to run it in a G body that I am not thinking of. I second retaining the A/C as I live in Florida and driving without it during the summer is just cruel.

There is another possibility: Run an aftermarket kit with a Sanyko compressor and use the rest of the factory system. There are shops that do nothing but hose fabrication, so once you get it mocked up and make some location marks on the hoses and fittings, you can have them crimp the ends for you. I will also say that a proper 134a conversion is more than just changing the refrigerant, oil, and adding a set of fittings. To do it right, you need a receiver, hoses, O-rings and cycling switch that are made for 134a. A compressor with proper seals for 134a should also be considered. I am doing a 1345a conversion on my car when I put it back together and will be changing all of that and having it evacuated. I also plan on cleaning out the evaporator and condenser as part of the process. I will see how it goes and post my findings in a month or so when I get to it.

For a cherry picker, find a local tool rental shop in the phone book.
 
http://www.v8buick.com/showthread.php?t ... elt+system

Here is a link to a thread about a serpentine belt system. This system uses the newer style radial compressor as well as newer alternator and power steering pump off of a chevy SBC form the mid nineties. I have the kit and it looks good but haven't gotten it installed yet.
 
I hate to sound like I'm very incompetent, but I really do appreciate everyone's patience with me on this one.

I seem to be needing some more guidance about disassembling the old engine compartment setup. Is there a specific order about how I have to remove everything, and if so, what is it? I've made a little progress, but what all do I have to do before I can take the old engine out?

Thank you!
 

Attachments

  • shaft end 001_1.jpg
    shaft end 001_1.jpg
    41.8 KB · Views: 227
Very cool about the serpentine with ac setup on the Buick 455. But a lot of work to. The Olds 455 guys take the brackets off the 307s and lengthen them. I retained the ac on my 500 Cadillac by getting the brackets from an 80/81 Cadillac 368 which is the same block as the 425/472/500 and used the newer pancake style compressor that we have in the gbody. The links for Tri Shield Performance on the Buick will also provide great solutions, parts, and advice for your car.
 
Man, the chassis assembly is a LOT better off than I assumed it would be. This car was built in Flint, and spent it's whole life up until about 8 months ago in Michigan. Not like northern Indiana is very different, but still. Hardly any rust on this guy, save for a couple spots in the floorpan. Even the frame is doing well. Can't wait to finish getting this ripped apart to start a build thread! Thanks everyone!
 
One can retain or have an A/C in a Regal.

If your Regal currently has Buick V6 in it you retain all the accesory brackets and enlongate some hole in the brackets and fit to the 455.

Just reuse the exisiting compressor, and wiring... hey if it still works and still charged on the car just unbolt the compressor and set it aside with lines still attached.

This means you can still retain the P/S pump,and the alternator, that came in the Regal.... no frankenstine parts set up.

I've seen 2 or 3 done this way and they work well.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.

GBodyForum is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

Please support GBodyForum Sponsors

Classic Truck Consoles Dixie Restoration Depot UMI Performance

Contact [email protected] for info on becoming a sponsor