[1965 Pontiac Parisienne]

Hey guys,
just bought an 1977 California Firebird and i found out that the car has the 5th digit of Vin the "R" so it`s an 350 Olds engine with oil filler neck at front.
Any things to say to this engine?
Does it sounds different to Chevy and Pontiac?
Any information to find about these engines?
How about the 350 ? Is it an good choice ?
Was an option in 77 ..why does people ordered an 350 Olds??

[PunchT37]

Looks like the only year for the Olds 350 in the Firebird. Good engines if built right. Older ones are better. The `77 has windowed mains so, don`t go hog wild on power. To get started, go here;

http://www.442.com/oldsfaq/ofbsb.htm

http://www.442.com/oldsfaq/ofe350.htm#E350 350CIDEngineDetail

[Mr Anonymous]

www.realoldspower.com

A 77 would have a lightweight, windowed "3B" block, and the 3A heads. They are immensely reliable, I put 280,000 on one I did. Earlier ones are better, and a 403 is better still, and directly interchanges.

[Donovan]

Very reliable engines and are comparable to Pontiac
It does not sound different than a Pontiac V8 or Chevy
See the links already provided for more info
They are a good choice, particularly since you already have it. Changing it will take work.
Olds engines were common in California because they were smog certified to California standards in that time. That's why you have one.

There is a very good amount of support in parts and performance parts for the Olds 350!

[android 211]

Rebuild the heads and install the 2.07 intakes and 1.68 exhausts. It improves breathing considerably. If you can trash the catalytic converter do it. Run true duals. Send the HEI out to be recurved. Get a new cam in the 214/225 .480" lift range.

[goatwgn]

Originally Posted by Mr Anonymous

www.realoldspower.com

A 77 would have a lightweight, windowed "3B" block, and the 3A heads. They are immensely reliable, I put 280,000 on one I did. Earlier ones are better, and a 403 is better still, and directly interchanges.

X2! My '74 Olds Cutlass Supreme 350 had 493,000 miles on it last year, I pulled it out (finally) to "freshen it up", due to the fact it was down on power compared to when newer. Engine was actually remarkably clean inside due to frequent oil changes. Valve springs were real weak, had numerous leaks, but always held good oil pressure, never knocked or smoked, despite being run hard early in its life. This is the earlier solid web block, but the later blocks will be fine for streetable power. On building power, the best budget trick if you can find a set is to use 455 heads. They flow more than any small block head. use a Performer RPM intake with it if you go that route. Cams like android 211 mentioned will be excellent.