Buick V-8 Engines 1967-1980: How to Rebuild

by Mike Forsythe

Overview

Bring your old Buick engine back to life with this new, all-color Workbench-edition book.

Buick has an interesting history with its 8-cylinder engines. In 1931, it began with the straight-8 engine, using overhead valve (OHV) technology while most of the other manufacturers were using 4- or 6-cylinder valve-in-block designs. When all of the GM divisions were converting to V-8 OHV postwar designs, Buick joined the party in 1953 with a design that was dubbed the “Nailhead.” This design lasted a little too long, and Buick finally replaced it in 1967 with a more modern design. The new design lasted until the mid-1970s, when emissions compliance spelled the end for big-blocks, and in 1980 for the 350.

In Buick V-8 Engines 1967-1980: How to Rebuild, veteran author Mike Forsythe takes you through the complete process of rebuilding and restoring a Buick V-8 to factory condition. Covered in a thorough step-by-step format are the tools required, the disassembly process, analysis of what went wrong, parts selection and replacement, the machining process, preassembly, final assembly, and the break-in process. For those who are looking for a little more performance, a chapter about performance modifications is also included.

While many people want to do this work themselves, some just want to learn how it is done. Either way, if you are in the restoration process or simply want a return to factory-original performance in your Regal, Century, Electra, Riviera, or LeSabre, this book is an essential tool to bring your Buick back to its original glory.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781613258705
Publisher:	S-A Design
Publication date:	02/22/2025
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	232 MB
Note:	This product may take a few minutes to download.

About the Author

Mike Forsythe rebuilt his first engine at age 13. Over the past 45 years, he has rebuilt too many engines to count, whether they resided in cars, trucks, or aircraft. Mike has also authored numerous overhaul books for major automotive publishers. In addition to his expertise with Buick engine overhauls, Mike earned certification as an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) master automobile technician and is an Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)–certified aircraft mechanic. As an avid drag racer, Mike also knows the tricks to ensure that engines reach their power potential.

Table of Contents

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Introduction </strong>

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"> 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Chapter 1: Buick Second-Generation V-8 Engines </strong>

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Identification

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">GM Corporate Engines

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">VIN Details

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Engine Casting Number

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Engine Code

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Parts Interchange 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Engine Overhaul 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Overhaul Alternatives

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"> 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Chapter 2: Tools, Equipment, and Supplies</strong>

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">General-Purpose Tools

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Power Tools 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Special Tools and Equipment for an Overhaul

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Precision Measuring Tools

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Test Equipment 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Fastener Sizes 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Torque 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Cleaning Chemicals 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Penetrating Oil 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Locking Compound

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Lubricants

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Sealants

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"> 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Chapter 3: Diagnosis</strong>

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Visual Clues

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Oil Consumption

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Noise Diagnosis

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Spark-Plug Condition

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Vacuum Gauge

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Compression Check

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Oil-Pressure Check

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Camshaft-Lobe Lift Check

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Timing-Chain Slack Check

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Power Balance Test

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Cylinder Leak-Down Test

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Cooling System Tests

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"> 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Chapter 4: Engine Removal and External Disassembly</strong>

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Chapter 5: Cylinder Head and Valvetrain Overhaul</strong>

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Special Considerations for Buick V-8 Engines

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Disassembly

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Cleaning

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Inspection

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Assembl

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"> 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Chapter 6: Engine Block Overhaul</strong>

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Disassembly

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Crankshaft

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Camshaft

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Oil and Coolant Plugs

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Lubrication System Modifications

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Lubrication Modifications for High-Performance Engines

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Cleaning

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Inspections that You Can Do

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Machine Shop Inspections

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Machining Operations

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Reassembly

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"> 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Chapter 7: Final Assembly</strong>

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Oil Pump Cover and Oil Filter Adapter

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Oil Gallery Plugs and Sending Unit

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Oil Dipstick Tube

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Engine Front Cover and Water Pump

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Oil-Pickup Tube, Windage Tray, and Pan

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Vibration Damper and Hub

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Fuel Pump

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Cylinder Heads

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Valvetrain

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Intake Manifold

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Valley Tray Gasket

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Paper Gaskets

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">All Gaskets

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Thermostat and Housing

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Leak Checking

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Pre-Oiling the Engine

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Distributor

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Valve Covers 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Engine Mounts

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Exhaust Manifolds 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"> 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Chapter 8: Installing and Starting the Engine</strong>

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Preparing the Engine and Engine Compartment

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Installing the Engine

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Choosing Oil

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Starting the Engine

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Breaking in the Engine

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Oil Consumption 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Maintenance

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"> 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Chapter 9: Performance </strong><strong>and Economy Modifications</strong>

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Safety 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Displacement 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Compression Ratio 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Forced Induction 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Camshaft

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Lifters

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Valve Springs

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Pushrods 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Rocker Arms 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Critical Valvetrain Safety Checks 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Exhaust Manifolds

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Headers

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Exhaust Systems

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Ignition Systems

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Cylinder Heads 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Intake Manifolds 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Carburetors 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">Electronic Fuel Injection 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;">How Does It Run? 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"> 

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Appendix </strong>

<p style="text-align: start;color: rgb(0, 0, 0);background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Source Guide </strong>

Editorial Reviews

It’s very hard to go wrong or misunderstand the procedures with so many photos and illustrations to go by on every single step.

Buick Bugle - Pete Phillips

"This is one book every hands-on Buick fan will want."

Hemmings Muscle Machines - Mark J. McCourt

"Whether you’re looking to maintain or rebuild a 1967-1980 Buick V-8 engine, or just learn more about what makes this V-8 roar, Forsythe’s book provides great insight and information for the Buick owner and enthusiast."

Old Cars Weekly

"In the words of another who has rebuilt innumerable engines himself since graduating from McPherson College, and opening his own very successful restoration shop, AACA member and Buick Bugle editor Pete Phillips, 'I have never seen such a wellillustrated, easy-to-follow engine rebuild book ... it even gives you alternatives to a complete rebuild, helping you diagnose if a total rebuild is needed. It’s very hard to go wrong or misunderstand the procedures with so many photos and illustrations to go by on every single step. I highly recommend it for those interested in the older “nailhead” V-8s.'"

Antique Automobile - Helen V. Hutchings