LUVTruck.com

Having an Edelbrock intake with an appropriate size 4bbl carb, going to a 4.1 intake is a waste of time. The only viable upgrade to your setup is to find or make a set of headers. And if needed, upgrade the exhaust system. An exhaust system that compliments the package you have now will bring out it's fullest capabilities.
As for the engine itself, i wouldn't do anything to it. Buick V-6's are amazingly reliable and with it being in a LUV with the components you have now makes for a crisp, performer for street use.
Upgrading the oil pump by adding a hi-volume kit would be good. All Buick oiling systems are not known for having a good design. There's too many twists and turns thru the oil passages. The stock oiling system does the job but it could use the extra help.
The only thing to check beyond regular maintenance is the weight bushings on the mechanical advance of the distributor. If they're worn, you're not getting the most out of the ignition system.
Having a basicly stock V-6 in a LUV is pretty much a perfect balance. More power than a stock 4 cylinder motor, It fits the truck like it should have been a factory option. The extra weight really isn't a factor. It just makes the truck a great all around vehicle.

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Previous setup: 4.1 Buick V-6/TH 350
Current setup: 400 Small Block Chevy V-8/TH 350
9" ford rear end/short bed/blue
What do Water, Electricity and Humans have in common... They all travel the path of least resistance.

For all the tips.

I've been doing my own research as well, and have the truck currently in a shop getting new(er) front calipers, a new Tranny Pan Gasket, and an alignment. (I don't have a garage, and it's winter in Seattle - read: Raining. Hard. Every day.)

Here's a couple pages I'm putting together for the little bugger:

http://www.cardomain.com/ride/2534308

http://www.pensandpixels.com/luv_notes/

Nothing really new there yet, just some of the ionfo I've been pulling together about the various parts and pieces.


I don't know yet if I have the smooth-fire version of the 231 Fireball... I don't know which Edelbrock carb I have, although I'm guessing it's the Performer 500cfm (smallest).

This truck may see refinements over time, but probably not significant "upgrades" from where it is now. It really is just a utility vehicle for me...

anyone know where to possibly find a turbo for the 231? I just bought another 79 LUV w/a 231 and I'm gonna swap it into my other 79 and would love to have a turbo on her! Here's a pic the previous owner sent me, a little blurry......

I haven't looked for one for quite awhile but you might try the afore mentioned buick site as they have a spot for tubos and you can ask and i bet you get a answer in a hurry as well as all the info you could use on your little Buick motor.There were alot of the 78-79 turbo Regals with carbs that would work and bolt on.

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1978 pro street step/side 455Buick, 4sp,4.11s, 31/18.5s

Not too bad i got the buick 231 and turbo 350 trans and it does good for me! Very good Engine. In 2 Months i'm putting weiand intake manifold and a edelbrock carb on mine which will give it like 30 more horsepower! you can get some power out of these engines just takes some time and money!