J/SA combination???

[Rick Schilling]

Originally Posted by SSDiv6

Olds 350.
However, you will need to change the grill to the 442 version with square headlights unless the car is a 442 model already.

I tend to agree with the Olds 350, however I believe it might be the more difficult build (and more expensive), not to mention probably having less market value than the Chevy in the end.

I'm not really sold on the reliability of the 77-80 Olds 350 engine either. The cylinder head castings are lightweights and notorious for cracking as well as the "windowed" lightweight blocks for failing. An earlier year block can be substituted but the head bolts are a different diameter and modifications have to be made.

On the other hand, Don Forester always ran very well with the Olds 350 and in a variety of body styles to boot.

I think it could be made to work, just not easily. That, however, can make the potential reward all the more gratifying!