engine options for a 63 riv

M

monte

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Hi everyone. I'm "new" to the buick scene. I own a 57 chevy and needed a break. My latest project is a 63 riv. Clean body, driver quality interior but it has a bad engine. Cracked block due to water instead of coolant left in over the winter. Oh well, live and learn. Anyway as far as a replacement I heard it was wise to try to find a 63 401 because it is the only direct bolt-in possible. Is this true? I dont have the means nor the time for a be-build or custom fab work. (motor mounts,driveshaft cutting,trans,ect.)I can handle a engine swap on a weekend with a few friends. So I guess my question is are there any eng./trans combo that are a direct bolt-in for this car? Once I iron-out my options for eng/trans I can hit you guys with some brake questions. My goal with this car is just to have a differant summer driver and most important, to have some fun!! :confused:
 
thanks for the response. I was looking for a more definitive answer. I don't mind spending a few bucks on a running drivetrain as long as its bolt in. Problem was, didnt know where to look. I have a sbc that looks as if it would fit but there might be some motor mount issues as well as header problems. Not to mention trans/ driveshaft.If its becomes an issue I'll part her out and find a running driver.
 
I have a '63 too, and I thought because '63 was the last year for the dynaflow, the '63 401 mounted only to that trans. The '64 had the THM-400. I think I've been told such a swap would entail driveshaft changes and different trans. mounts.

Any clarification? I want to change my dynaflow to the THM-400.
 
Oh, and Monte, if all else fails (which I hope doesn't) I have a running '70 Toronado for sale because I just bought another Riviera:


W-34 455 V-8 with 400 HP/510ft-lbs of torque; reblt engine/trans/carb/starter; new high-output alternator, battery, 1/0 cables, MSD electronic ignition, Autometer gauges, Alpine/Nakamichi/ads high-end stereo (optional or negotiable); all-new Magnaflow dual exhaust system with 2 1/2" pipes (LOUD!), new Firestone Firehawk P255/70R15 performance radials; newly rechromed rear bumper (BumperBoyz); needs: paint, minor body work (rear quarter panel dented), interior seat covers, headliner, carpet. Be DIFFERENT! Be BOLD! Get the Motor Trend car-of-the-year. You aren't average; don't drive something average.

$1000/obo
 
Steve, your some salesmen! Thanks for the offer however I have not lost hope on my riv yet. A major reason some project cars never get completed is due to either poor homework,cash,or wrong part purchases. Don't want to fall into that! A little research goes a long way. I'm going to a rather large show/swap in upstate NY 1st week of may. Maybe something will pan out. If not I can always take the "other" car out and beat the hell out of her. Really love that riv though. Its a real gentlemen's ride. It always comes down to $$$$.
 
Originally posted by steve schumacher:
I have a '63 too, and I thought because '63 was the last year for the dynaflow, the '63 401 mounted only to that trans. The '64 had the THM-400. I think I've been told such a swap would entail driveshaft changes and different trans. mounts.

Any clarification? I want to change my dynaflow to the THM-400.
Click to expand...
I'm new here and just found your post. Ex '63 Riv owner and attempted trans converter.

FUGGETABOUTIT!!!!

Here's what you're up against:

-A '63 engine block can drop into a '64 but not vice versa. The '63 crankshaft has an enlarged hole to fit the large stubby nose of the dynaflow's torque converter into it.
-Different carburators! The '64 carb has a mechanism for shifting the '64 trans.
-Different driveshafts
-Different trans mounts
-Different shifter & console plate
-Different differentials

Overall, the 63 & 64 Rivs maybe the same on the outside, but there are so many dirvetrain and electrical differences - especially the wiring harnesses, that by the time you're successfully done, you'll have NO HAIR LEFT on your head! With the money you'll have spent could have bought yourself a brand new car at today's prices.

Hope this helps your decision.

BTW, believe it or not, I recently saw a '63 Riv converted to a 4 speed manual trans on eBay.
 
You may use any 401 from 59 to 63 and it is a direct bolt in. The 57 to 61 364 will also fit, but I would not think you would like to go down in size. The 64 up 401 and 425 had the back of the crank machined differently. You could always usea later 401 with the crank from your engine. They will interchange.
 
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