Often called the "Ram Air III", this engine was officially called the "400 Ram Air" for 1969 and then simply "Ram Air" for the 1970 model year. By comparison, the factory 421 H.O. . The 421 badging was standard on the 2+2, the 421 H.O. With some WS6 "Trans Am Special Performance Package" bundles in 1978, the W72 engine was incorporated with the WS6 option group and not listed on the dealer order invoice. The 1971 455 HO was available in the Firebird (optional in Formula; standard in Trans Am), the GTO (standard with "The Judge" package), and the 2-door LeMans, LeMans T-37 (including GT-37), and LeMans Sport. The heart of the build, a code 45B 1964 421 HO 370 HP manual trans 4-bolt main block, all Pontiac 421 engines without exception had 4-bolt main caps. Apparently at least one of these engines survives under the hood of an engineer's personal Pontiac. The short deck engine weighed about 40lb (18kg) less than the other variants and had an 8000 rpm redline. superior_queens (3,035) 100%. All L78 Pontiac 400 equipped cars received the same shaker decal as the L80 Oldsmobile 403, being "6.6 LITRE". Rings: LPC (Liberty Performance Components) premium moly, standard tension Pontiac engine production records report that 190 XS-code 389 engines were built during the 1966 model year. Simply called "Ram Air" by Pontiac[17] it was the first in a series of engines available from Pontiac as regular production line options and officially called Ram Air. So large are the intake ports that the pushrods run through the center of each port via pressed-in tubes, in addition to streamlined airfoils over the tubes themselves to improve port shape, and increase flow velocity. 1966: 421: 9782611 (late) 1967-1969. Instead, they were substituted with the L80 Oldsmobile 403, or the L37 Pontiac 301 if they still requested a 4-speed transmission. (imp.) Returns; . It's well documented that an internal combustion engine is nothing more than an air pump. The 428 was increased to 456.12cuin (7,474cc) in 1970. Still, it was the strongest American engine offered that year. Engine Oil: 120 ft-lbs. The main innovation of the Pontiac engine was reverse-flow cooling and the stamped rocker-arm system, which had been devised by Pontiac engineer Clayton Leach in 1948. The 1970 '455 HO' was a conventional "D" port engine. cam specs out at 215/225-degrees duration at 0.050 and has just 0.407/0.407 lift with the factory 1.50:1 rockers. This was a completely stock car on loan from a private owner for the test. For 1958 the V8's bore was increased again to 4+116in (103.2mm), increasing displacement to 369.4cuin (6.1L). The Pontiac 2+2 is a full size automobile that was manufactured by Pontiac, built on the B-body chassis.It debuted for the 1964 model year as a trim-only option for the Pontiac Catalina, with special door panels, bucket seats with a center console, and exterior badging.Pontiac marketed the 2+2 as the "big brother" to the popular Pontiac GTO.. Beginning in 1965 the name Catalina was no longer . . Pushrods: LPC chrome moly Preparation: Install in rod, torque, measure ID However, compression ratios were cut dramatically, marking the beginning of the end of the muscle car era. Along with the HO it also had Pontiac's famous cast-iron "headers", which were much better at reducing backpressure than the regular manifolds. Pontiac Engine Torque Specs - Butler Performance The 1971 455 HO was rated at 335hp (250kW) @ 4,800rpm and 480lbft (651Nm) of torque @ 3,200rpm (gross). Car and Driver magazine, which had showcased the infamous Pontiac GTO vs. Ferrari's GTO comparison in 1964, organized another bout between the . Oil pan: 8-quart with extended pick-up, fabricated retention clamp Again, its bore was expanded, this time 0.03in (0.76mm) to 4.1525in (105.47mm). . Though a change of camshaft would delay production, Pontiac decided to change camshaft, employing one with identical timing to the 744 camshaft, which had been used in the 400 Ram Air(aka Ram Air III) engine with manual transmissions. Forged rods and forged-aluminum pistons were specified, as were unique high-flow cylinder-heads. [9], The W72 engine was standard in all 1977 Pontiac Can Ams (bar the 1977 Can Ams sold in California/High Altitude states which received the L80 Oldsmobile 403) and was optional in all 1977-79 Pontiac Firebird Formula and Trans Am models. Besides a variety of displacements, the Pontiac V-8 block saw a number of other changes over the years, including starter locations, main-journal diameters, engine-mounting points, and . When fitted with other high-airflow components, it produced a good balance of low-end torque and higher-RPM power. 18 watchers From 1955 through 1959, the Pontiac V8 was also used in some GMC pick-up trucks. Block/Crank combo: '64 four-bolt 421 / '64 OE 4.00-in stroke Pontiac V8 Engine Tune Up and Torque Specifications - WOW Muscle Cars Here is another number to ponder: 370 hp. For 1965, however, the 2+2 became a bonafide muscle car. Unlike previous enlargements of Pontiac V8s, it did not replace the 389. It was rated at 376bhp in 1967 and 390bhp in 1968 and 1969. Engine Year Info Spark Plug Plug Gap Point Gap Dwell Angle Timing (BTDC) Idel RPM Manual Tran. Unusual for a major automaker, Pontiac did not have the customary "small-block" and "big-block" engine families common to other GM divisions, Ford, and Chrysler. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. From 1977 to 1981 there were 4 distinct 301 versions: For 1981 model year vehicles, the engine codes are the 8th digit of the VIN. The block is still at standard 421 bore size (4.09375") and will be bored to fit standard size forged 428 pistons (4.120"). In 1968, a 320hp (239kW) HO option was offered in the Tempest and Firebird. For '65, the 421-cid V-8 became a standard part of the option package, and for '66, Pontiac made the 2+2 a separate model, still based on the Catalina two-door hardtop or convertible.Flamboyantly styled and expansively proportioned, the 2+2 was unbeatable for sheer presence. [22]. Lot S152 1962 Pontiac Super Duty 421 405 HP 4 Speed - YouTube What is important is the total timing, the . It requires a compression ratio of at least 10.25:1. Only 157 Ram Air IV Firebirds, including 55 Trans Ams, were built for 1969. Math, not gasoline, makes horsepower under the hood of a Pontiac. Both engines received the McKellar number-10 camshaft, which was much like a solid-lifter version of the hydraulic number-041 of later years. In 1968 the 326 was replaced by the similarly 389-derived 350, which used a 3+78in (98.4mm) bore and 3+34in (95.3mm) stroke for a total displacement of 353.8cuin (5,798cc). Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Pontiac V8 Cylinder Heads - Wallace Racing In light of this, the 'Year' entry, as indicated by the chart below, may actually represent the year that the heads were cast, versus the year that they were actually installed on an automobile. . Boost was wastegate limited to 91psi (0.6210.069bar). The basic package included the heavy-duty suspension, with even stiffer springs and shocks available. pontiac 421 complete engine for sale | eBay For 1967, Pontiac retired the 389cuin (6.4L) and replaced it with the 400cuin (6,554cc), a 389 bored-out by +0.06in (1.5mm) to a bore and stroke of 4.12in 3+34in (104.6mm 95.3mm). 15 GTO facts you might not know about America's original muscle car Distributor: '61 Delco cast-iron with direct oiling Starting at the bottom, Jim will employ lighter and stronger parts in the reciprocating assembly, as evidenced by the choice of Howards billet rods and forged Icon pistons. It was factory rated at 366hp at 5,400 RPM and 445lbs.ft. First offered as an option in 1963, the 421 HO came in a 4-barrel engine of 320hp (239kW) and one Tri-Power H-O version with a hotter cam and efficient iron exhaust manifolds and rated at 370hp (276kW). Cam was a #541596 McKellar No. Engine Block Date Code. 1963 - 389 SD Code 543797. Compression jumped from 11.0:1 to 12.0:1, while other tweaks increased maximum shift points by 500 rpm, to a screaming 6400 rpm. By 1979, Pontiac was no longer allowed to produce the 400 engine as emissions further tightened. Splayed main caps, head bolts tie into main caps. The W72 package was a standalone option, and although was discounted when ordered in conjunction with the Y82/Y84/Y88 Special Appearance package, did not come included with Special Edition Trans Ams, it remained an extra cost option. Once corrected the SD-455 was recertified and was released for production in late April 1973. Initial advance: 18-deg Lobe separation angle: 112-deg The main upgrade for the engine was the ESC, (Electronic Spark Control)[15] which provided slightly more power at 170hp (127kW) with 4.9L (299cuin) for the 19801981 model years. ft. After the SD-455 was certified with the new cam, it was production-ready but was then further delayed by the EPA mandating Pontiac recertify all of its engines when the EPA discovered that part-throttle emissions exceeded the limits. Next time we will cover the induction system and the dyno testing to see if Jim meets his goal. It was clear to most enthusiasts by 1966 that midsize models had seized the muscle car mantle. HP = flow at 28 in/H2O x 0.257 x # of cylinders. 1963 Pontiac Super Duty 421: A Profile of a Muscle Car - HowStuffWorks A mechanical system built by Rochester, it was similar in principle, but not identical, to the contemporary Chevrolet "fuelie". All Pontiac Catalina 2-Door Sedan versions offered for the year 1966 with complete specs, performance and technical data in the catalogue of cars . - P.Top - Correct Exterior/Interior. Final torque ratings may vary and need to be determined based on application and parts used. 421 H.O. Tri-Power Engine Build - Part 1 - High Performance Pontiac Block description: '64 421ci #157 However, in the June 1974 issue of SUPER STOCK AND DRAG ILLUSTRATED, a new 1974 Trans Am with the SD-455 motor ran 14.25 @ 101mph (163km/h). Jim Taylor knows this, so he took a mathematical engineering-style approach to finding 100 hp in a relatively optimized engine. The 2+2 reverted to option status for '67, then died, a proud relic of a time when big cars, Pontiacs in particular, ruled the streets. Tested: 1968 Pontiac GTO 428 / Royal Bobcat - Car and Driver Six reasons to revere the 1966 Pontiac Grand Prix | Hemmings It retained the 421's 4in (101.6mm) stroke and 3+14in (82.6mm) main journal. The Pontiac 2+2 was promoted as the "big brother" to the iconic Pontiac GTO. A set of Hooker Super Comp headers will be used on the dyno, and Jim is porting the stock heads to increase intake-port flow by 30 cfm. The Catalina was the base intermediate-sized Pontiac resting on a 121-inch wheelbase that it shared with the Safari and the Grand Prix. 1966 Pontiac Ventura / Photos, Specs, Design - Auto Museum Online Styling for Status. This included the ESC (Electronic Spark Control) distributor and controller borrowed from the 301 Turbo, which allowed for higher timing without the penalty of engine damaging pinging or preignition. Pontiac ignited the classic muscle car era with a stroke of marketing genius. In 1961 and 1962 they were available with either one 4 barrel carburetor or a dual 4 barrel carburetor setup depending on whether the buyer wanted to head to the racetrack or drag strip. By 1963 Pontiac decided it was time to release the 421 V8 officially to the general public and the motor would continue to be available until the end of the 1966 model year. Maximum RPM (high-RPM engine): over 8000 rpm, Engine weight: estimated 550lb (249kg) complete, Power: estimated 640hp (477kW) at 7500rpm, This page was last edited on 30 January 2023, at 13:15. The V8 engine was introduced for the 1955 model year as the "Strato Streak". Pontiac differed from other GM Divisions and most other manufacturers in producing only a single small block V8, rather than adding a larger big block to its line-up. All 1977-1978 Trans Ams ordered with the 4-speed Borg Warner Super T-10 manual transmission received the W72 T/A 6.6 engine. Although it is much different from the original 1955-vintage Pontiac V-8 powerplant, the 301 has the distinction of being the last true Pontiac V-8 engine, as Pontiac ceased production of these engines effective April 1, 1981. The Pontiac Tri-Power Story | Mac's Motor City Garage For those who may not be familiar with the equation, here it is again: The Best Features Of The Pontiac 2+2 - HotCars The 455 HO designation made its debut in 1970; Rated at 360 or 370hp (268 or 276kW) (depending on which vehicle it was installed into) & 500lbft (678Nm) of torque, it differed from the regular full sized car 455 by large valve heads with smaller combustion chambers, and a larger camshaft. Casting number: 97770716, '64 date And it cruised silently and rode with less harshness than muscle intermediates. Maximum flow at 28 inches of water By 1949 work on a 287cuin (4.7L) OHV V8 had begun, but moved along slowly. Valvesprings: Crower, dual no damper As a result, it was remarkably free of teething problems. Preparation: Disassemble, check ball seat for width, spring tension, plate clearanceHEADS This was underrated at 330hp (246kW). The air cleaners look like those used on the top dog 376 gross HP 421 CI engine but there was also a lesser 356 HP version available too. Pontiac V8 engine - Wikipedia Collector size: 3.00-inGASKETS The first of the "big journal" Pontiac V8s, it had a bore and stroke of 4+332in 4in (104.0mm 101.6mm) and came with dual four-barrel carburetors. 544127 with larger 2.02/1.76-inch (51/45mm) valves entered production. The SD-455 used round-port cylinder heads similar to those used on the 1971 and 1972 455 HO, with specific "LS-2" intake and cast-iron exhaust header manifolds. The fuel-injected engine became an option on any Pontiac model, carrying a staggering price tag of $500 (almost 15% of the car's base price). The first letter equals the month. Specifications listing with the performance factory . The short-deck block and different intake ports also required the design of a new intake manifold. Pontiac Heads; Pontiac Engine Torque Specs; Pontiac Cars (Body Types) Pontiac Engine Information; Instruction Sheets; Compression Calculator; Ask a Tech Question; Customer Service. 301 4-barrel 'W72' or 'ESC' (170hp, 127kW) (with the 5th character of the VIN being a "W" for 1979-1980 and the 8th for 1981). However, a few dealers would offer them in the GTO or Firebird and do their own installations, such as Royal Pontiac who offered the "Bobcat" conversion. Lifters: Crower solid with EDM oil hole (0.024 inch) [8] All of these improvements provided the W72 with a power rating of 200hp (203PS; 149kW) at 3600 rpm and 325lbft (441Nm) of torque at 2400 rpm, while the standard L78 400 only produced 180hp (182PS; 134kW) at 3600 rpm and 325lbft (441Nm) of torque at 1600 rpm. Metallurgy of the critical parts is an area often overlooked, but not by Jim Taylor. Plans were made to produce Firebirds and GTOs with advertised ratings of 355hp (265kW) and 375hp (280kW) respectively but concerns about emissions, the response of the automobile safety lobby, and the warranty implications of a high-revving street engine led to cancellation of the program.[why? For 1956 the V8 was bored out to 3.9375in (100.01mm), increasing displacement to 316.6cuin (5.2L). Pontiac went to open-chambered heads in some 1967 models and all 68 and up to improve power, engine breathing and reduce emissions. The two inline engines were used through 1954, when Pontiac unveiled its OHV Strato Streak V8 in 1955. The 1955-up Pontiac V8 that finally reached the public was an overhead valve engine with cast iron cylinder heads and block and wedge-shaped combustion chambers. The cylinder heads on the 400 CID version had an intake port volume of 290cc (17.70cuin), nearly twice the size of a typical standard D-port Pontiac head - and flowed in the area of 315cuft/min (8.9m3/min) @ 0.8in (20mm) valve lift; in the realm of the NASCAR-dominating Chrysler 426 Hemi. On the invoicing for the 1979 model year Firebirds, they had the option listed as L78, however, every 1979 400 equipped car received a W72 engine. The 421 SD Tri-Power engine offered during these years produced the highest horsepower of any motor in the Pontiac V8 lineup at 376 bhp. Pontiac 421 V8 Specs, Firing Order and Engine Information - Engine Facts Primary tube diameter: 1.75-in For the 1969 and 1970 model years it was the standard engine in both the Firebird Trans Am and the GTO Judge. 1. Brand: Crower PN 60311, solid Only about 400 were produced before the fuel injection system was quietly dropped. For the 1978 model year, Pontiac re-incorporated the earlier thicker cast cast engine block denoted by the cast number 418988 and a "XX" cast into the side of the block. Stock Pontiac Engine Specs - Ron's Pontiac Page With a view to the latter, what we find lurking under the hood is the 421ci Tri-Power V8. The 4-barrel version was available from 1978 to 1981 and the Turbo version was limited to the 1980 and 1981 model year, however, it was originally intended to be available for the 3rd generation Firebird before its cancellation by GM. . Jim Taylor, well-known Pontiac engine builder, had that question on his bucket list for years. Pontiac's V8s share the same 6.625in (168.3mm) connecting rod length, with the exceptions of the later short deck 301, 265, and 303 Ram Air V. Most Pontiac V8s had an overall length (to the edge of the water pump pulley) of 28.25in (718mm), an overall width of 27in (690mm), and a height (not including air cleaner) of 31in (790mm). Carb: (3) Rochester two-barrels PMD Pontiac Heads; Pontiac Engine Torque Specs; Pontiac Cars (Body Types) Pontiac Engine Information; Instruction Sheets; Compression Calculator; Ask a Tech Question; Customer Service. Pontiac Grand Prix - Muscle Car Club These heads can be distinguished from 6x8 heads through a small stamped "4" on the top of the front boss. With higher compression and dual exhaust it produced 280hp (209kW) for 19631964, and 285hp (213kW) for 1965 through 1967, its final year. [19] The cylinder head design is similar to the Ford FE tunnel-port head used in the GT40 and Can-Am series racing. The Ram Air IV replaced the Ram Air II in 1969. He says the Tri-Power setup modified with the addition of the larger '66 center carb will flow 1,050 cfm. Lift: 0.515/0.525 with 1.6:1 rockers Rear Main Cap. street engine. 1968 - 400 Ram Air I and 428HO Code 37" Ram Air I and. Cam choice is always extremely important, and Jim decided to go with an aggressive Crower mechanical flat-tappet stick with 247/252-degrees duration at 0.050 and 0.515/0.525 lift (0.495/0.505 with 0.020 lash) with 1.6:1 rockers. Transistorized ignition was available. Head ID Location Pontiac V8 Engine - The engine that sparked the Muscle Car Era A period-correct battery cranks the high-compression 469-cubic-inch Pontiac engine. 1963 Pontiac V8 Engine Specs. It shared the 389's 3+34in (95.3mm) stroke, but its bore was 3.78in (96.0mm) for a displacement of 336.66cuin (5.5L). It was rated at 310hp (231kW) @ 4800rpm and 400lbft (542Nm) @ 3,000rpm on 10.5:1 compression. Standard motor was the 421 4 barrel with 342 horsepower, which was no slouch itself. Secondary: Front and rear #70 In 1973 Pontiac started stamping extra numbers (1/4" tall) on their heads.These head numbers represented chamber sizes.They are usually stamped on the machined pads by the valve covers. He wanted to confirm his parts are up to the task of holding the cylinder pressure that creates horsepower. The 1971 Pontiac 455 HO was Pontiac's first engine to receive a special 800cuft/min (23m3/min) Rochester Quadra-jet carburetor with specific jetting. Over the years he has amassed a library of data from investing in metallurgical testing with a well-respected laboratory. in., again available only in the GTO and Firebird. Since the story of this 421 is better told in pictures, follow along as we take you on this exciting journey! The Pontiac 421 HO was the king of the streets in 1963, producing 353 and 370 horsepower depending on carburetor configuration. In 1977 the 400-cubic-inch (6.6L) T/A 6.6, (RPO code W72) was created to fulfil the performance engine gap in the Pontiac line-up. Offered on select models from 1957 through 1966, Pontiac's Tri-Power induction system added a new dimension of performance to the General Motors brandand a colorful new term to the hot rodder's vocabulary. 10 with 308/320 degrees of duration and 0.445/0.447-inch lift (11.3/11.4mm) with 1.65:1-ratio rocker arms and solid lifters, special #529238 forged-steel connecting rods, forged aluminum 4.09-inch (104mm) bore Mickey Thompson pistons, #542990 forged-steel crankshaft with a 4-inch (101.6mm) stroke and 3+14-inch (82.6mm) diameter main journals. Compression ratio was a modest 8.00:1, with valve diameters of 1.781in (45.2mm) (intake) and 1+12in (38mm) (exhaust). In addition, a shallower spherical-wedge combustion chamber moved the tuliped valve heads .040" closer to the piston at TDC, improving mixture draw considerably during the intake stroke. More 400cuin (6.6L) engines were produced by Pontiac than the other versions - estimates range from 80 to 200 units. The Pontiac 2+2 featured a 6.9 L V8 engine, heavy-duty front springs, dual exhaust and distinctive exterior body design. Beginning in 1967 casting numbers moved to the rear of the block just behind cylinder #8. Flamboyantly styled and expansively proportioned, the 2+2 was unbeatable for sheer presence. See profiles, photos, and specifications of, Muscle cars came in many shapes and sizes. Both used a single two-barrel carburetor. The 1968 Ram Air II remained at 400 cu. The Pontiac V8 engine is a family of overhead valve 90 V8 engines manufactured by the Pontiac Division of General Motors Corporation between 1955 and 1981. Simply put, what good is the power if the engine does not last? Centerline: 110-deg As a result, peak horsepower dropped from 310 to 290, though torque increased from 390 to 395lb. The engines feature a cast-iron block and head and two valves per cylinder. The V8 was phased out in 1981, replaced by GM "corporate engines" such as the Chevrolet 305 cu in small block V8. The 1975 455 HO package received some negative press/reviews as some buyers expected to see a return of the 1971-1972 engine, and were disappointed when they received the lower output motor. Pontiac V8 Engine Codes and Specifications. It produced 120hp (89kW) After 1981, the Pontiac V8 was replaced entirely by the GM "corporate" V8's from Chevrolet and Oldsmobile. Horsepower: See Part 2 Make way for one of the baddest muscle cars of all time, the, An all-aluminum, race-proven V-8 defined the rare and wicked, The engine is what gives a muscle car its flamboyant personality. The Pontiac 455 V8 was The GTO and Firebird Brand's Last "Big Block" The W72 Performance Package also included an upgrade to the rear differential ratio, setting the rear gear ratio to 3.23 for all 1977 and 1979 W72 Firebirds, with the exception being 3.42 for 4-speed equipped W72 Firebirds in 1978 only. The 421.19cuin (6.9L) was introduced in 1961 as a dealer-installed Super Duty option. Year: CU IN: Casting # 1967: 326. Pontiac engines were used in its U.S.-market cars; Canadian-built Pontiac automobiles generally used Chevrolet engines. Turn adjusting screw in Clockwise until engine misfires, then turn screw out 1/2 turn . It had a four-barrel carburetor, dual exhaust, and higher compression, and was good for 280hp (209kW) for 19631964, and 285hp (213kW) for 1965 - 1966 and the final year, 1967. . Rocker studs: ARP special 34-in bottom said the "Pontiac 421 cu. While all this sounds great, remember the engine will have to retain the small 1.92-inch intake valve because chamber space is too tight for larger ones. The new-for-1965 "Venturi" body shape and curved side glass were carried over with updates front and rear. Furthermore, this car had an automatic, air conditioning, a 3.08 axle and weighed 4,010 pounds (1,819kg). Primary tube length: approximately 31.00 inches Rod/Stroke ratio: 1.65:1BOTTOM END The 389 was the standard engine on the GTO up to 1966. gasoline (petrol) engine with displacement: 6902 cm3 / 421.2 cui, advertised power: 252 kW / 338 hp / 343 PS . Keepers: Comp Cams race locks Crower identifies this cam as a Level 4, which means it provides strong midrange and top-end power for heavily modified engines. (imp.) engine for 1963 is reported to be putting out 500 ft-lbs torque at 4,200 rpm and . With the 1964-1967 Pontiac Catalina 2+2, Pontiac achieved a combination of power, road-holding, and fine styling superior to any other big Pontiac, and most of the competition's models besides. HOT ROD and CAR AND DRIVER) were fitted with the Ram Air IV-spec camshaft and functional hood scoops - a fact that has been confirmed by several Pontiac sources. Prices ranged from $2,760 to $3,220 . 1965-75 Pontiac & Tempest Tune-up Specifications This S/D retains the original "Traction Master" traction bars and two-bar spinners on the original 8 . It added '421' engine badges on the front fenders, 2+2 insignia on the deck lid and rear fenders, and simulated louvers behind the front wheel cutouts. Timing chain: LPC, double rollerINDUCTION All Pontiac V8s from 1955 to 1959 were reverse cooled, known as the "gusher" cooling system. In 1967, the cylinder head design was improved for the 400 4-barrel engine. Not long before the model year introduction, Pontiac management decided that the entire line would be V8-powered. For 1967 only Pontiac called this engine the Quadra-Power 428. aluminum V8 it had offered in the Tempest and replaced it with a small-bore version of the standard 389cuin (6.4L) Pontiac V8.