1. What qualities does nickel impart to the engine? I already answered that.
2. What effect does that have, on other internal parts? None as the other
internal parts are similar except possibly for the crank. some of the GMC
cranks were forged instead of cast.
3. When you say "high", what is the percentage vs. the 500 cid engine? The
Cad engine has no nickel that I am aware of. The GMC engines have varying
amounts based on the casting numbers.
4. How do aluminum alloy engines cope?? They either have a steel liner or in
some cases they are now spraying them with a stainless steel alloy.
>Thomas:
>
>OK, I hear you so far.
>
>Can you help me with answers to my other questions?
>
> Paul
>
>From: Thomas G. Warner [mailto:warner]
>Sent: Monday, November 16, 1998 9:54 AM
>Subject: RE: GMC: Cad Engine?
>
>paul the inclusion of nickel in an engine makes the block much stronger
>and at the same time lighter. The cylinder bores in particular last a
>very long time, which accounts for the testimoney of many GMCs with very
>high mileage on the engine. Somewhere I have a list of the casting
>numbers on the blocks and the nickel content of each. If I remember
>right the 1976 palmbeach L (actually a marine block) engines have the
>highest nickel content along with the 350 CI diesel blocks.
>
>There is some aftermarket parts still being made for the 500CID Cad
>engine.
>
>I would not trade my 455 for any other engine for the GMC motorhome.
>This winter I am going to replace the J heads with E heads with
>stainless steel manley valves, new springs, welded cross overs etc. That
>makes a big difference to this engine.
>
>
>Steve:
>
>Allegedly, the 500 cid Cadillac engine is 125 lbs heavier and reportedly
>flows less air, albeit at the upper rpm limits, than a 455cid engine.
>However, one big factor to consider is lack of factory support anymore.
>I don't know about after market support though?
>
>Fritz Slama, 608-489-2514, is the originator of converting the 500 cid
>engine for use in the GMC.
>
>Thomas:
>
>I know it's desirable in an engine to have a high nickel content, but
>can you enlighten use why that is so? What qualities does nickel impart
>to the engine and what effect does that have, on other internal parts?
>Also, when you say "high", what is the percentage vs. the 500 cid
>engine. What percentage do today's engines have?? How do aluminum
>alloy engines cope??
>
> Paul Bartz
>
>From: Thomas G. Warner [mailto:warner]
>Sent: Monday, November 16, 1998 8:18 AM
>Subject: Re: GMC: Cad Engine?
>
>>From the information I have it is a direct replacement. He will need all
>of the Cadillac brackets for air conditioner, exhaust manifolds etc.
>
>Question is why would you want to do it if he already has the 455. The
>455 is a stronger engine and will last longer. The olds block has a
>high nickel content in it which explains why we are getting such
>fantastic longevity from it
>
>From: sgilbert [mailto:sgilbert]
>Sent: Sunday, November 15, 1998 2:18 PM
>Subject: GMC: Cad Engine?
>
>A friend with a 73 GMC wants to replace his tired 455 with a Cadillac
>500ci engine. He says he knows this has been done and is looking for
>some information to help him with the job... Anyone out there ever hear
>of this swap? Is there any place to get info., literature???
>
>Steve Gilbert
>67 GMC (3 days old)
>Auburn, CA
>
>
Tom & Marg Warner
Vernon Center NY
1976 palmbeach
