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MG MGB GT V8 Factory Originals Technical - Buick 300

I am in the throws of the conversion to a 62 Buick 215. I can get my hands on a 64 Buick 300 (all aluminum) 3 speed. I have seen some info on people using the 300. Are there advantages to using the 300. I think Kurt has 300 heads on his 215. Is this worth it? Also will the 3 speed bellhousing work for a 215 T5 combo?
Dean Lindell

I am not an athority but, the 300 is a cast iron follow-on to the 215 Buick, the block itself weighs about 75lbs more than the alum. block. The heads for both are alum. and are interchangeable but the 300 has larger valves and bigger combustion chambers. Most folks think that to take advantage of the bigger valves you need more cam, more fuel,better exaust, etc to make it perform. I have seen reports of loss of power by just putting the 300 heads on by themselves. The 300 has the late model Buick,Olds,Pontiac BOP bellhouseing bolt pattern not the same as the 215 which has a unique to itself bolt pattern. You have a lot better chance of finding a BOP bellhousing in a wrecking yard, 215 bellhousings are rare but aftermarkets are available. A 300 should bolt in anywhere a 215 will, it just weighs more. The whole follow-on Buick small V8 family has some interchangeable parts (not the big blocks). For only 75lbs difference and the late model bolt bolt pattern the 300 seemed an alternative to a 215. It would have a lot of low end touque you would have to control.
B.Reeves

My b has a 300 4v motor and a GM V6 T5 trans.I had a 215 in the car for 2 years until I happened on a 300.The plan was to use the crank only to stroke the 215.I installed the whole thing instead.The change was VERY rewarding.The extra 95 ft/lbs of torque is incredible.The car weighs the same as it did on the boat coming over.Stock springs handle the load fine.
Mike Moor

B.Reeves
What do you mean by BOP bellhousing?
Dean Lindell

Dean, I always thought it stood for Buick,Olds, Pontiac.If it means something else, I'd be interested tio know too. Barrie E
Barrie Egerton

Thanks Barrie Makes sense!
Dean Lindell

Dean Lindell
Firstly I have tried to Email you direct without success, is your address correct?
I agree with the comments made about weight and resultant loos of power if the 300 heads are used on the wrong motor, however if one is prepared to spend a large amount of time and effort to build a very big capacity motor I gather the heads and crank may be of some use. If you do not go ahead I am slowly sourcing the appropriate bits and pieces and would appreciate you contacting me as you may be able to find the appropriate parts for me as I am in Australia. Yhe parts I require are 300 crank and rods, alloy 300 heads, and a 4 speed bellhousing.
Adrian Akhurst

The 300 seems to be a good alternative to the 215. What vehicles did it come in? Is it shared with any other GM division?
Mike D

Adrian
I am really toiling with the thought of going ahead and at least purchasing the 300 engine. I will let you know who a source of parts for a 300 might be, I remember seeing parts listed in a catelog somewhere, I'll take a look.

Mike D.
The 300 was in a 64 Buick Special this one had a 3spd bellhousing. They may have used it in an Oldsmobile F85 as well? Again I have a list of cars somewhere I'll find it and get back to you.
Dean Lindell

This thread was discussed between 26/10/1999 and 23/11/1999

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