OLDSMOBILE 350 V8

A Mercedes-Beater That Went Down in Flames

It’s not going over the top to say very few engines had more impact on the American light diesel market than the Oldsmobile 350 V8. Here’s how it all went down.

The 1970s is when carefree American motoring went fully into the toilet. Thanks to the Arab oil embargos, fuel economy became the motoring public’s fixation. At the same time, emissions regulations had brought the mighty American V8 to its knees and choked-down cars and trucks couldn’t chirp a tire while sucking way more fuel that was suddenly four times as expensive. A 55-mph national speed limit was the disgusting condiment on a fecal matter sandwich.

The auto industry struggled to meet the challenges and addressed the issues in many ways, including by looking at diesel power. Hey what’s not to like about 25-35 percent better economy on fuel that’s 10-15 percent cheaper? (Then, not now.) Unfortunately, the American auto industry didn’t have suitable automotive diesels in-house. Asian and European automotive diesels were highly developed but generally small four-cylinders for compact cars. Those played well over there but everyone knew America wasn’t quite ready to abandon full-size cars and trucks.

In an SAE white paper from February of 1978, Olds engineers said their diesel quest began in 1973. They started big by installing GMC’s 478ci V6 Toro-Flow diesel into a full-sized car. Since Opel in Germany was an arm of GM, they tested an Opel Rekord four-cylinder diesel in a mid-sized Olds. They also tried a Nissan SD33 six-cylinder diesel in a full-sized car.

The Toro-Flow was physically too big and emissions-dirty. The 2.1L Opel was too small for a mid-size and the 100hp, 165 lb-ft, 3.3L Nissan six was too small for a full-sized car. They didn’t have many other choices without downsizing their car line, so they decided to develop a new engine in-house. The stout, reliable, fits-in-existing-platforms Olds 350 cubic-inch V8 gasoline engine came to mind as an architectural pattern.

Suppress that sneer! To that point in history, basing a diesel on gas engine architecture had occurred many times, most often successfully, and it allowed a manufacturer to use similar tooling for both engines. Conversions generally demanded an IDI combustion chamber, since they deliver a slower and lower pressure rise on the firing event and the engine structure can be lighter. IDI science was well explored at that point but Olds soon learned none of the previously developed IDI combustion chambers were suitable. They tested 300 combustion chamber combinations over a three-month period before settling on a design.

When they installed test engines into cars, a pleasant surprise emerged. The goal had been to equal the performance of the Olds 260ci economy V8 (110 hp/205 lb-ft) in a full-size Delta 88 chassis. The 350 diesel ended up being a little faster—0-60 in 17.5 versus 20.8 for the 260 in the same 4,500-pound ’75 Cutlass test car. Diesel fuel economy was way better— 26.5 mpg versus 19.5 at a steady 55 mph and 21.4 mpg versus 16.7 on the EPA composite test. The 1978 production diesels were EPA rated at 21/30/24 in the full-size platforms. The same car with a 350 V8 gasser delivered 15/22/17. The diesel option cost $740 in a 98 Olds where the base engine was the 350 gas V8.

Meet the Oldsmobile 350 LF9 Diesel

The original 350 diesel “D” block shared the same 4.047×3.385 bore and stroke as the V8 gasser and the same general dimensions, but was only 75 pounds heavier. The complete diesel car was only 135 pounds heavier than the gasser, half of that being the second battery. The internal bulkheads and main bearing support webs of the D block were beefed up and the deck thickness increased. The nodular iron crankshaft was similar to the gas V8’s, but main bearing diameters were enlarged from 2.5 to 3 inches, the cheek structures were increased in size, and the pin lightening holes were eliminated. The connecting rods were significantly enlarged and the piston pin diameter went from 0.978 to 1.11 inches. Needless to say, the pistons were completely different, with steel inserts behind the top compression ring. The compression ratio was a whopping 22.5:1. 

The heads were completely new but the valves were the same size as the gas 350’s. The heads were held down by then-new TTY (Torque To Yield) style bolts with four bolts per cylinder. The cam profile was altered to suit the diesel and the camshaft material was improved from ordinary cast iron to hardened Conkerall iron. The lifters were a tungsten-titanium alloy steel. The cam and injection pump was driven by a double roller chain.

The engine was fueled by a Roosa-Master DB-2 rotary pump from Stanadyne fed by a mechanical lift pump. The injectors also came from Stanadyne and were a new design they called Pencil Nozzles. They had two 0.017-inch orifices (0.014-inch in California) and popped at 1,800 psi.

The Oldsmobile diesel was introduced on September 13, 1977, in the Delta 88 and Ninety-Eight platforms, as well as the Custom Cruiser station wagon and the Chevy C10 pickup. For mid-year 1978, the mid-sized Cadillac Seville, which Cadillac liked to think of as its Mercedes-Beater, also got the diesel option.

All Hell Breaks Loose

The launch started well and the press favorably compared the Oldsmobile diesels to Mercedes. Surveys done of new customers early in ’78 were reported to be 97 percent positive. Olds was selling a lot of diesels, about 60,000 that first year, plus the Chevy trucks and Sevilles (a total of about 129,000 engines). The American public appeared to be accepting the diesel and its quirky ways. Then the fecal matter hit the fan. 

The head gaskets failed. Four TTY head bolts were not always enough to hold the heads down. Sometimes they sheared but most times the gasket failed first. Either way, when the car ended up at the dealer, some mechanics didn’t replace the TTY bolts, or they torqued new ones incorrectly, and if the bolts didn’t break the first time, they did the second. Sometimes the head gasket failure started slowly, contaminating the oil and killing the bearings and/or the camshaft before the head gasket blew.

Injection pump and injector failures occurred. Often this was due to water in the fuel (common in that era). To save money, GM had opted NOT to include a water separator, a water-in-fuel sensor or a tank drain. In some cases, an injection pump failure occurred because people added an alcohol-based “drygas” product.

Camshafts were going flat, despite the improved materials. If it didn’t come from an internal coolant leak it was often related to the lubricants used. GM prescribed a strict 3,000-mile oil change interval to protect against soot buildup, which was made worse by the EGR system, and there wasn’t much fudge factor in the oil change interval. The lubricant specified was a diesel-certified API CE/CD oil, uncommon at gas stations and car repair shops of the day. Non-diesel-rated oil was being used both for changes and top-off, often with some “expert” telling the owner: “It’ll be fine!”

Lower ends were failing. If it didn’t come due to contaminated, incorrect or sooted oil, the “chicken” in that scenario was broken or pulled main bearing cap bolts. Turns out the threads weren’t tapped deeply enough and the bolts were too short. The oil pump driveshaft had a tendency to shear off, but from what little detail is available, it looks like this was often a side effect of oil sludging due to coolant or soot contamination.

Despite it being a stout double roller design, timing chains stretched. This didn’t cause a sudden catastrophic failure but retarded the cam and pump timing, leading to poor performance, higher EGTs, increased noise, excess smoke, hard starting and more strain on the weak head gaskets. This problem was easily fixable by resetting the timing and, if caught early, was no harm in and of itself. 

Finally, it came to light that dealer personnel were in an informational vacuum when it came to dealing with the many warranty problems rolling in. A good number of the follow-up failures were due to inadequate repairs the first time around. The non-dealer repair shops were even deeper in the dark, and more inclined to “wing it.” That was a two-edged sword that sometimes yielded good but non-GM-authorized fixes, and other times hackmeister repairs that added to the car owner’s trouble.

The Blowback on GM

Class action lawsuits ensued and we can thank the Olds 350 for bringing us the Lemon Law, which forces manufacturers to buy back defective cars. The J.D. Power Company sprang into prominence when it published a big survey on the 350 diesel problems. GM spent millions upon millions in paying off claims and has yet to fully get past the reputational hits. Surviving executives and engineers from that time period are probably still experiencing PTSD events.

The Hit on Owners

Based on period sources, an estimated 25 percent of everyone who bought an Olds diesel in the ’78-79 model years had major trouble. They faced a lot of obstacles at first with the inability of GM to fix the cars properly. There are tales of people spending exorbitant amounts of money to get the cars fixed after the warranty ran out. The resale value of Olds diesels went straight into the sewer. Even people who had no trouble with their Olds diesels felt the pain. Fearing a problem, they preemptively attempted to trade them in, and found dealers offering dismal trade-in value or even refusing to take them in trade. 

Shared Blame

GM was the chicken that laid the bad eggs. Barring a better initial product, a faster response to the problems could have saved many headaches. Some of the heat must also go to service people, some of them representatives of General Motors, who dropped the ball and added to the problem. Finally, shame on the owners who couldn’t be bothered to read or follow the recommendations in their owner’s manuals. 

The Legacy

There was a time when the words “Oldsmobile” and “diesel” could not be used together without the speaker hawking a big loogie onto the ground. Forty years later, the legacy of that event is still very evident. There isn’t much doubt the fallout soured the majority of the American public on diesel. It’s also true that the problems were magnified in the retelling and it became fashionable to bash GM.

There were a lot of Olds diesels that had no trouble at all, or the problems that occurred were dealt with satisfactorily. The better dealers and techs stayed up on the problem and once GM realized they had a major PR issue, they encouraged dealers to take proactive steps. Competent techs, responsible dealers and diligent owners avoided most of the trouble. When working well, the cars were nice drivers and the fuel economy was just what gas-crunch-shocked owners needed. If GM had spent a little more time on the details, they could have had their Mercedes-Beater and been credited as the foundation of the American diesel car world, not the destroyer of it. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What options are available for remanufactured crate engines in terms of origin and purpose?

Explore Your Options for Remanufactured Crate Engines

When it comes to remanufactured crate engines, you have a wide array of choices based on both origin and purpose. Here’s a closer look at what’s available:

Origin of Engines

• Domestic: Engines originally manufactured within the country, ideal for those looking for local options.
• Foreign: Explore engines from international manufacturers to suit diverse automotive needs.

Purpose of Engines

1. Replacement: Opt for remanufactured crate engines to seamlessly replace worn-out or failed engines in your vehicle, ensuring reliability and performance.
2. Restoration: Perfect for classic car enthusiasts looking to breathe life into vintage vehicles, these engines offer a blend of authenticity and modern reliability.
3. Customization: For those keen on modifying or enhancing vehicle performance, custom remanufactured engines can be tailored to specific specifications.

Each choice provides distinct benefits, allowing you to select the engine that best suits your vehicle’s needs and your personal preferences.

What types of engines are offered, and since when has the company been providing them?

Oldsmobile diesel was introduced on September 13, 1977, in the Delta 88 and Ninety-Eight platforms, as well as the Custom Cruiser station wagon and the Chevy C10 pickup. For mid-year 1978, the mid-sized Cadillac Seville, which Cadillac liked to think of as its Mercedes-Beater, also got the diesel option.

Since the mid-1970s, automotive enthusiasts and mechanics alike have sought quality remanufactured crate engines. These engines have catered to a wide range of needs, from domestic to foreign models, ensuring that replacements, restorations, and customizations are readily available.

Whether you’re revamping a classic Oldsmobile or experimenting with a mid-sized Cadillac, the availability of remanufactured engines has been crucial. This broad offering has allowed car owners to maintain, restore, or enhance their vehicles with precision and reliability, keeping them on the road for generations.

Since when has the company been providing these services?

The company has been providing their engine services since the year 1975.

What types of engine services are offered?

The company offers services involving remanufactured crate engines, which include options for domestic and foreign vehicles, as well as services for engine replacement, restoration, and customization.

How are shipping costs calculated, and what additional shipping options are available?

Understanding Shipping Costs and Options

Shipping costs are primarily influenced by your location. You can determine your exact shipping fee using our convenient Shipping Estimator, which you’ll find just below the engine image display on our site.

Additional Shipping Options

We understand that not all facilities have a loading dock or platform. If this is the case for you, there’s no need to worry. During checkout, you have the option to select a liftgate service, which ensures that your delivery can be safely unloaded even in the absence of a dock.

Our goal is to make your shipping experience as seamless and flexible as possible.

What promotional items are available for purchase at checkout?

Discover Exciting Promotional Items at Checkout!

Are you ready to explore a range of standout promotional products available when you finalize your purchase? Let’s dive into what you can snag:

Apparel Selections

• Classic Fit Tees
  Opt for tees made from 100% cotton, available in vibrant color choices and a classic fit. Perfect for those who value comfort and style, these shirts showcase personality and confidence.
• Performance-Focused Tees
  Designed for optimal comfort, these high-definition cotton tees are a great way to enjoy both performance and style, with a nod to timeless design since 1975.

Headwear Collection

• Snapback Caps
  These caps offer a classic snapback design, presenting a bold and simple style that’s always in fashion. They provide an adjustable fit suitable for most users.
• Bucket Caps
  Perfect for any season, these caps come in two sizes with a khaki colorway, delivering a funky and fun flair to any outfit.
• Leather Patch Caps
  Embrace the rugged and retro look with caps featuring a timeless leather patch. One size fits most, ensuring a great fit for many.

Glassware and Mugs

• Rocks Glass
  Unwind with a high-octane 10 oz. Rocks glass that’s perfect for relaxation moments.
• Patriot Mug
  This ceramic mug holds 15 oz. And is adorned with spectacular graphics. Ideal for fueling up for the day with your favorite coffee or tea.

Each of these items awaits you at checkout, ready to elevate your personal style or make for a thoughtful gift. Take a moment to explore your options before completing your purchase!

What Does the Port and Polish Cylinder Heads Performance Upgrade Involve?

Performing a port and polish on cylinder heads is a savvy modification aimed at enhancing engine performance. Here’s what the upgrade entails:

• Porting the Bowls: This process involves enlarging and refining the engine’s intake and exhaust ports for improved airflow, allowing the engine to breathe more efficiently.
• Port Matching: Ensures the ports and manifold openings align perfectly, minimizing air-flow restrictions that could hinder performance.
• Profiling Combustion Chambers: This step smoothes out the combustion chamber surfaces to optimize airflow, resulting in more efficient combustion.
• Polishing Internal Surfaces: By polishing these surfaces, imperfections such as casting flaws are removed, reducing friction and enhancing the flow of air and fuel.
• Comprehensive Performance Gains: The culmination of these modifications results in notable performance improvements across the entire rev range, boosting horsepower and torque.

Undertaking this upgrade can lead to significant enhancements in your vehicle’s engine performance, making it a valuable investment for automotive enthusiasts seeking a competitive edge.

What is included in every engine purchase for long block and short block assemblies?

What’s Included with Every Engine Purchase?

When you choose an engine assembly, rest assured you’re getting a comprehensive package designed for performance and longevity. Here’s what you’ll find with each option, whether you’re opting for a long block or short block assembly.

Long Block Engine Assemblies

Each long block engine package offers a robust set of components, including:

• Complete Block and Rotating Assembly: The heart of the engine, meticulously put together for optimal performance.
• Cylinder Heads and Valvetrain Components: Ensures seamless operation and efficient airflow.
• Camshafts: Finely tuned for enhanced engine power and efficiency.
• High-Performance Gasket Kit: Designed to prevent leaks and maintain strong engine seals under high pressure.
• Break-In Oil: A specialized oil to condition and protect new parts during their initial operation.
• Registration Form for Warranty: Secure peace of mind by registering your engine assembly for guarantee coverage.

Short Block Engine Assemblies

If you’re leaning toward a short block assembly, your purchase will include:

• Complete Block and Rotating Assembly: Core components crafted to deliver reliable performance.
• High-Performance Gasket Kit: Essential for maintaining robust seals and preventing wear.
• Break-In Oil: Formulated to ensure smooth integration of new engine parts.
• Registration Form for Warranty: Important for activating your product guarantee and support.

Important Note

For the best results, professional installation is highly recommended. Be sure to adhere to all installation guidelines and best practices to enhance your engine’s performance and durability.

What Are the Benefits of Balancing the Rotating Assembly in an Engine?

Balancing the rotating assembly in an engine can have profound impacts on performance and longevity. Here’s a detailed look at the benefits:

• Enhanced Fuel Efficiency: By ensuring all components work harmoniously, the engine consumes less fuel, translating into better miles per gallon.
• Improved Power Output: A balanced rotating assembly allows for smoother operation, enhancing the overall power generated by the engine.
• Reduced Vibration: Proper balancing significantly minimizes vibrations, which not only makes for a more comfortable ride but also reduces wear on engine components.
• Decreased Internal Stresses: Balance mitigates internal stresses on engine parts, leading to reduced chances of failure and lower maintenance costs over time.
• Less Engine Noise: A balanced engine produces noticeably less noise, creating a quieter and more enjoyable driving experience.

Investing in a balanced rotating assembly is pivotal for anyone looking to maximize the efficiency and longevity of their engine.

What should I do if I experience issues with my engine within the warranty period?

What Steps to Take If Your Engine Has Issues During the Warranty Period

Experiencing problems with your engine within the warranty period can be frustrating, but resolving it is straightforward. Here’s what you should do:

1. Visit the Manufacturer’s Website: Begin by going to the official website of the engine manufacturer. Look for a dedicated section for warranty support or customer service.
2. Submit a Warranty Claim: Most manufacturers offer an online form for submitting a warranty claim. Fill out this form with all required information about your engine and the issues you’re facing.
3. Prepare Necessary Information: When submitting a claim, be ready with essential details such as:
   • Engine model and serial number
   • Installation date
   • A brief description of the problem
   • Any relevant service records or receipts
4. Expect a Prompt Response: After submitting your warranty inquiry, you should receive a response soon. The manufacturer will guide you through the next steps to diagnose the issue and proceed with repairs or replacement if necessary.
5. Follow Instructions for Resolution: Once you receive a response, follow the instructions provided to resolve the issue and get back on the road with confidence.

By following these steps, you can efficiently address engine issues and take full advantage of your warranty protection.

How is engine pricing determined, and are custom builds priced differently?

Understanding Engine Pricing and Custom Build Costs

When it comes to engine pricing, transparency is key. We believe in providing all the information upfront, ensuring our customers know exactly what to expect. Our standard engine prices are clearly displayed, eliminating any guesswork.

How Is Engine Pricing Determined?

1. Base Model: The starting price for each engine is primarily based on the model and make, similar to how car prices vary between Toyota and Mercedes.
2. Specifications: Factors such as horsepower, fuel efficiency, and advanced technology (like hybrid systems) can affect the price.
3. Market Trends: Just as market demand influences the cost of model-specific engines from brands like Fordor Chevrolet, these trends play a role in determining our pricing structure.

Are Custom Builds Priced Differently?

Yes, custom builds are a unique offering with tailored options that can vary greatly in cost. Unlike standard models, these are priced based on the complexity and specific requirements of the build.

• Level of Customization: The more intricate the build, the higher the price. Adding performance parts or specific modifications can impact the final cost.
• Materials and Components: Utilizing high-end materials or specialty components often seen in custom jobs for brands like Ferrari or Lamborghini will also reflect in the pricing.

To explore custom build options or for detailed pricing information, reaching out to our team directly is best. This ensures we can provide a personalized quote that matches your exact needs.

What is an engine core, and how does core cost reimbursement work?

Understanding Engine Cores and Core Cost Reimbursement

What is an Engine Core?

An engine core is essentially a used engine that serves as a starting point for remanufacturing. When you purchase a remanufactured engine, the core is the part that gets rebuilt and improved to function like new. This component is vital in the engine remanufacturing process, as it provides a base structure that can be renovated and enhanced.

How Does Core Cost Reimbursement Work?

1. Separate Pricing: The engine core comes with a distinct pricing setup. This means that when you buy an engine, the cost of the core is listed separately. This allows you to return the core for a potential refund.
2. Core Availability: Most suppliers maintain a substantial stock of various engine cores. However, if your specific engine’s core is unavailable in their inventory, they might need to use your original core. If this occurs, they’ll discuss your possible options with you directly before moving forward.
3. Reimbursement Process: Once you return the engine core to the supplier’s facilities, you can receive a refund for the core cost. Note that this refund might exclude the return freight charges. They typically handle all shipping logistics, easing the process for you.
4. Cost-Effectiveness: It’s important to consider the freight costs associated with returning the engine core. If the shipping expense exceeds the core refund amount, returning it might not be financially viable. In such cases, selling the core locally could be a better option.

By understanding these elements, you can make informed decisions regarding engine core management and reimbursement, ensuring a smooth transaction and potentially saving on costs.

Do You Sell Custom and Performance Engines Directly to the Public?

Absolutely, we offer our custom and performance engines directly to the public. Our commitment is to deliver unmatched quality, tailoring each engine to meet your specific needs.

Every engine we produce is crafted by our team of skilled machinists, assemblers, and technicians at our dedicated facility. Unlike others who market and sell engines under various labels, we take pride in creating each unit, ensuring excellence in performance.

Whether you’re an enthusiast looking to upgrade or a professional needing a reliable power solution, we ship our engines across the nation. Get in touch with us for a consultation tailored to your unique requirements.

How can I register a warranty for my engine, and what is the time limit for registration?

How to Register Your Engine Warranty and Important Deadlines

Registering the warranty for your engine is a straightforward process that ensures you’re covered in case of any issues. Here’s what you need to know:

• Online Registration: Begin by visiting the dedicated warranty registration page provided by your enginemanufacturer or seller. This is usually the most efficient way to register your product.
• Deadline: You have 90 days from the date your engine is shipped to complete the warranty registration. It’s crucial to adhere to this timeline to ensure your warranty is valid.
• Need More Time?: If you find that you’re unable to register within the given 90 days, reach out to the support team of your engine provider before the deadline. They are often flexible and willing to assist with extensions if needed.

By taking these steps, you can ensure your engine is properly registered and covered under warranty, providing peace of mind and protection for your investment.

What options are available for custom paint selection for engines?

Explore a Spectrum of Engine Paint Colors

Discover a world of personalized hues for your engine with our custom paint selection. For just $139.00, transform your engine with the perfect shade to match your style and preference.

Custom Color Options Include:

• Vibrant Reds and Oranges:
  • Ford Red
  • Chevy Orange
  • Hemi Orange
• Classic Blues:
  • Pontiac Metallic Blue
  • Chrysler Blue
  • Ford Blue
  • Mercury Blue
  • GM Blue
  • Pontiac Blue
  • AMC Blue
  • Ford Light Blue
• Greens and Yellows:
  • Detroit Diesel Green
  • Grabber Green
  • Alpine Green
  • Daytona Yellow
• Rich and Unique Shades:
  • Oldsmobile Gold
  • Oldsmobile Bronze
  • Gloss Black
  • Mopar Plum Purple
  • Ford Grey

These striking selections offer endless possibilities for personal expression and customization. If simplicity suits your style, opt for our Standard Coating at no additional charge, providing a clean and classic finish.

What are the expected shipping times for engines?

Understanding Shipping Times for Engines

When ordering an engine, the delivery timeframe can depend on several factors, including the engine’s demand, stock availability, and current supply chain dynamics. Generally, you should plan for delivery within 6 to 8 weeksgiven the current circumstances.

Key Considerations:

• Engine Popularity: High-demand engines may experience longer shipping times.
• Availability: Engines in stock may ship faster than those requiring special procurement.
• Supply Chain Flow: External factors affecting global logistics can also impact shipping timelines.

Rest assured, you’ll receive regular updates on your shipment status to keep you informed every step of the way.

What Payment Options Are Available for Purchasing an Engine?

When it comes to purchasing your engine, there are several convenient payment methods available to suit your needs:

• Credit and Debit Cards: All major credit and debit cards are accepted, providing you with a quick and secure payment process.
• Flexible Payment Plan: You can also opt for a split-payment option. Pay 50% of the total cost upfront, and settle the remaining balance later with no interest charges.

These options make it easy and stress-free to secure the engine you need while managing your budget effectively.