WikedOldsmoileSupe88

Good afternoon,

My 1957 Olds Super 88 currently has a 1963 Olds 394 engine. The intake is a 2 barrel. Does anyone know if a 4 barrel intake manifold from 1957/1958 will work? It looks similar but wanted to ask.

Thanks.

WikedOldsmoileSupe88

Looking at pictures of the 4 barrel 371 and 394 intakes, I can't really tell any difference. If anyone knows, please let me know. Either way I decided to buy the 4 barrel intake. The seller only wanted $25 for it and it does not have any cracks and the intake surfaces look perfect.

fleming442

I was told by Ross Racing Engines that 371 intakes will not fit 394s, so as long as it's a 394, you should be good. I thought I could make spacers to put a J2 on a 394, and he said it wasn't worth the trouble. Offy makes a 3x2 intake.

Charlie Jones

That's Offenhauser, not Edelbrock, that makes the 3X2 intake for 394's
57 & 58 manifolds will not fit '59 and up.

fleming442

Sorry about that; I fixed it.

So, it's a year thing, not deck height? Or, are they one in the same?

Charlie Jones

Yes, deck was raised in '59.

WikedOldsmoileSupe88

So, the only difference is the deck height causing the ports not to align? Is there any fix or adapter for that? Either way, it was an inexpensive chance I took.

Charlie Jones

The deck height was probably raised to improve rod angularity.
The only fix, is to put that manifold on E-Bay and look around for a 59 thru 64 four barrel intake.
If you have deep pockets, and want something really cool, Exeter Auto supply can get you new 3X2 or dual quad manifolds.
EAS - New Product Page (exeterautosupply.com)

WikedOldsmoileSupe88

Thanks. Time to sell or trade it. As always, thanks so much for all the information!!

griffey57

My dad put a 394 olds motor in his 57 with offenhauser manifold for tri power and said it was the best engine ever he was drag racing on the street and track and beating everybody. He said it was the perfect setup. Even 409 chevys were no match