Somebody recently offered me a complete, running, rebuilt Olds' 350 engine, for $900.

He claims it will "Bolt right up to your car and trans", as well as not need any mods to my car.

I have a 1979 Cutlass calais, with a 3 speed automatic, and the stock 260cubic inch motor.

Would this motor 'bolt up' to my existing equipment? Things like radiator and cooling, and suspension wouldn't have to be adjusted or upgraded? I don't have much more than what it would cost for the engine.

Thanks guys.

as with any engine that has been "rebuilt", you may want to look into the quality or the build, and parts that were used to determine if the price is right.

You may be able to find a whole car, with an olds 350 in good running cond. for less than 900... As for a direct bolt up / swap, I am certain other members will be able to answer this for you. I suspect you will be looking at more than just a saturday afternoon remove & replace.

Big question is:
How much do you trust the seller?

Followed by:
Why is he selling it?
Does he have receipts for the all parts and labor?
Can you drive the car the engine is in?
How long has it been out of the car it was in?
Where and how is it being stored?
How long has it been stored?
Can you see and hear it run?
Will he remove a head, so you can inspect the workmanship?

The lower the price, the less questions you need to ask.

Now, do you have a place to store it while you save up some "emergency" funds to cover the normal problems (such as a broken motor mount) that show up during this type of switch?


As he said, the engine and all it's accessories will bolt into place.

The existing radiator may, or may not, be too small, and the manifold to exhaust pipe fit, might be a little off.

If the trans is in good shape and you drive it easy, it should not give you any problems.

Norm