do I paint my 1980 Olds 442

[MrSony]

Just put a cam and intake and non computer carb (if you have one already) and keep the old stuff. That'll wake that 180hp motor up. The whole point of the resellability of these cars is keeping the original drivetrain. A chevy needs different motor mounts, wires, and transmission unless you get an adapter.

 

[olds307 and 403]

Jeff leave the original 350, I know it is the weakest Olds 350 built but is still unique. A sbc crate motor will not like the factory 2.73 gears. I would go with a mild cam as said, something better than the Edelbrock Performer cam. A cam like the smallest Voodoo or 10420211 High efficiency cam from Lunati would work well. Your motor is only 8.5 to remember. I would buy a good quality double roller timing set like a Cloyes to replace the factory nylon coated gears.

 

[Texas82GP]

Why not put a little peppier gear in it like 3.08 or 3.23?

 

[Jeff Blagden]

just remember that there is differences between the olds 350, and chevy 350's, and a sbc isn't a plug-and-play upgrade.

beautiful car, and my vote would be like the majority: it's only original once, and as one of the guys said, it may not turn out as nice as the original finish.... glad you're not wanting to hack it up!

thanks have not really looked into engine options that much thanks for the input will look a lot closer at my options but it won't be for a year or two and honestly the replies I get on this forum I am leaning to leave it as is but thanks to everyone for the replies it is a great place to ask questions and have a good day chef Jeff

 

[_Tom]

Jeff, Nice car!
I wouldn't touch it. Just keep it clean and enjoy it.


I always heard that the '80 W-30s came with the gold 4-4-2 key... do you have yours?

Cheers,
Tommy

 

[Jeff Blagden]

Jeff, Nice car!
I wouldn't touch it. Just keep it clean and enjoy it.


I always heard that the '80 W-30s came with the gold 4-4-2 key... do you have yours?

Cheers,
Tommy

good day Tom I do not have gold keys for the 42 thanks for reading the thread and have a good day Jeff from Canada