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Olds FAQ -- 442

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Nov 25, 2002, 3:10:07 PM11/25/02

Olds FAQ -- 442

1964
1965
1966
1967
1968
1969
1970
1971
1972
1973
1974
1975
1976
1977
1978
1979
1980
1985
1986
1987
1990
1991

Meaning(s)
Definition of 4-4-2 from the Oldsmobile Factory Literature:
1964 (Original meaning)
4: Four Barrel Carburetion
4: Four On the Floor
2: Dual Exhausts

1965 (First year of automatic transmission option on 442)
4: 400 Cubic Inch Displacement
4: Four Barrel Carburetion
2: Dual Exhausts

1985 to 1987 (Last of RWD 442s)
4: Four speed automatic
4: Four barrel carburetor
2: Dual exhaust

1990 and 1991 (FWD 442)
4: Four cylinders
4: Four valves
2: Two camshafts

[ Thanks to Wes Fujii, Steve Ochs, Mike Coccagna for this information ]

Authentication
This is sort of a prickly subject because the factory was concerned with
producing vehicles, not the desires of collectors thirty years later! So you
will find some (maybe a lot) of stock, factory, not mickeyed, un-numbers
matching vehicles.
It seems to be a matter of record here on the list that Olds was kind of
"loose"
with the correspondence between the series designation in the VIN and the
style
number on the body plate, in the period of 1968-1969. As much as we would
like
to think that Olds inscribed those numbers on the cars purely for the sake
of
collectors verifying the correctness of these cars thirty years after the
fact,
the real purpose of them was convenience and record-keeping in the
production
process. So, if the Lansing plant was able to produce 442's efficiently,
with
the right parts, by simply installing all the parts in the regular Cutlass
bodyshell (which would differ from the 442 shell by only two digits in that
data
plate), then there's no reason for them not to. Of course, the VIN would
have to
reflect the models that the dealers actually ordered, and since different
prices
were given for the different models, a dealer who was expecting a VIN
beginning
with 344 would feel cheated if he got a list of an incoming car beginning
with
VIN 336.
After all, these were just humans who built this car, so it's conceivable
that a
body destined for a regular Cutlass ended up being assembled as a 442. When
you've got three plants producing these cars, each at times with its own
peculiarities in procedures,it's certainly a possibility. You could always
search out the title on the car to see where that VIN has been, and what
it's
been affixed to. Also, check that the engine stamping matches the VIN.
In theory, the VIN and Body (cowl) Tag should match, but it is really the
VIN
that counts. For example, Lansing 442's (at least) came off the line with
regular Cutlass body plates, even though the VIN is correct for a 442.
However,
someone could have changed the VIN - check for new rivets! One other way to
think about this: if someone did alter the car to look like a 442, why would
they add the VIN, but not the body plate, from a 442? A body plate is a lot
simpler to replace; would someone with an original 442 try to pass it off as
a
regular Cutlass by installing a "336..." body plate?
The fact that the body unit # doesn't match the VIN serial number is not
unusual
either; it's the sequential number of that body, not the whole car that the
body
sits on. Unless you have evidence that the VIN has been doctored, you indeed
have a 4-4-2.
If the engine number matches that would clinch it, but if it doesn't, that
doesn't mean that your car isn't a 4-4-2 -- it just means the engine has
been
replaced. The VIN is the key. It sure sounds to me like your car is legit.
From 1968 to 1971, 442 became a model, like Toronado or 98 was a model (as
in, a
unique VIN). So the VIN started with 34487, 86 or 85 depending on the body
style, to designate a 442. The 3 is for Olds, and the 44 stood for 4400
series.
From 1964 to 1967, the 442 itself was an option package, not a model. Then
again
in 1972 (to 1980 or so), 442 became a option again, available on certain
F-85
and Cutlass models. Option code W-29 signified the 442 option during these
two
time spans. So in essence you could order a 1972 Cutlass with a 350 2 bbl
carb
and put the 442 option on it. For 1972 only, the W-30 option was a Cutlass
that
had the 442 package and a special engine that was designated in the VIN with
the
letter X.
Look for any type of documentation for the car. (Window Sticker, invoice
etc.)
This is really then only true way to verify this car. The are very easily
copied.
Do a title search and try to find the original owner and ask him some
questions.
This should verify that the car is not stolen.
Check the engine and heads for the correct codes, and the intake manifold
for
the date codes for the year the 442 was produced. Air cleaner snorkel on a
442
faces the passenger side.
Check the serial number on the engine, stamped on a pad below the drivers
side
head at the front of the engine. This will probably require a mirror and
possibly some cleaning. This should be 8 characters long and match the last
8
characters of your VIN.
Should have boxed lower rear control arms and a sway bar. These were usually
the
only cars of this series to get one. Also check for upper rear control arm
to
frame stiffeners, and front fender braces (behind the front wheelwells).
Should
have rear bumper cut-outs, 1968 - 1972.
An anti-spin (posi) was optional for all years.
Also, it would be a good idea to check the last six digits of the engine
serial
number (located on small machined pad below head, behind the alternator)
against
the last six VIN digits.
Motorbooks International's 4Oldsmobile 4-4-2 & W-Machine Restoration Guide
is a
good beginning reference.

If you are mad that a fake is being passed off as the real thing, and feel
strongly about such blatant fraud, write down the VIN number, and then
notify
the seller that you are going to run the VIN through DMV every 6 months or
so,
and if you find out it has been sold, you will contact the new owner, and
notify
them that you had previously told the seller that the car was a fake. If
someone
sells a vehicle fraudulently, then under federal law they are liable for
twice
the difference in value to the new owner, plus they face a prison sentence.
It does work! So far on the two vehicles that I have done this, one owner
changed the car back before selling, and the other parted his out. If there
is
one thing I hate it is people who try to sell fakes to unsuspecting people.
It
only causes headaches to those of us who happen to own real versions of
these
cars.
Please refer to the Engines section for authentication as well!
Please refer to the Blocks section for authentication as well!
Please refer to the Heads section for authentication as well!
Please refer to the Intake Manifolds section for authentication as well!
Please refer to the Exhaust Manifolds section for authentication as well!
Please refer to the Carburetors section for authentication as well!

Check each section below for year specific authentication.
[ Thanks to Mark Prince, Jim Chermack, Joe Padavano, Bob Handren, Bob Barry,
Mike Rothe, Ray Moriarty, Kurt Heinrich for this information ]

History
Olds didn't release it until late summer 1964. The 442 was a parts bin
special,
squeezed out the door as a GTO-competitor. They basically took the B09
police
option (290hp 330 V-8, HD suspension), mated it with the already available
4speed, added dual exhaust options, gave it a dual snorkel air cleaner, a
cam
(all of which brought the engine up to 310 hp), rear stabilizer bar, 442
badges,
and called it the 442.
My guess is that the Olds engineers already had the 400 CID V-8 designed and
tested, but not tooled for production, when the marketing department said
"we
need a 442 now!" or Bobut said "I require a 442. NOW". The Marketing folks
probably required at least 300hp, so the engineers took the B09 police
pursuit
package (a 290hp 330, dual exhaust option, stab bar), added the badges and
sold
2999 units as a 442. A number of drag racers in southern Florida campaigned
290hp 4-speed F-85s in stock classes and did quite well.
The 442 has been used as the Indy 500 pace car in 1970, 1972, 1974 and 1985.

Option coding: In 1964 the 4-4-2 was ordered with option code B09.
In 1965 the order code was 4-4-2.
In 1966, W-29 signified the 4-4-2 option. L69 was the 4-4-2 performance
package
with the tri-power, and L78 was the 4-4-2 engine with a 4 bbl.
In 1967, L78 was the 4-4-2 engine with a 4 bbl.
From 1968 to 1971 the 4-4-2 was a seperate model, therefore L78 disappeared.
In 1972 W-29 denoted the "4-4-2 Appearance and Handling Package" which could
be
had with any engine and cost $29. The 455 was L75 and added $137.
W-29 was used from 1968 to 1980 something or other.
From 1985 to 1987, W-42 was used.

Production
The 4-4-2's from 1964 thru 1967 were an option on any F-85 or Cutlass.
I now have Oldsmobile factory documentation of the use of 336XX body data
plates
on 344XX VIN 442s in 1968 and 1969. In addition, it isn't only 442s which
had
this discrepancy!
While researching the mystery 442 I've recently written about, I came across
several pages in the factory parts book which have tables cross-referencing
Oldsmobile Sales Model Code with Fisher Body Model Code. The table for 1968
Oldsmobile Models is reproduced below: (Note that "OLDS SALES MODEL CODE"
represents digits 2 through 5 of the VIN, with digit 1 always being a "3" to
represent Oldsmobile)
Models Olds Sales
Model Code Model Code
F-85 Six:
Town Sedan 3169 68-33269
Club Coupe 3177 68-33277

Cutlass Six:
2-Seat Station Wagon 3535 68-33635
Holiday Sedan 3539 68-33639
Convertible 3567 68-33667
Town Sedan 3569 68-33669
Sports Coupe 3577 68-33677
Holiday Coupe 3587 68-33687

F-85 V-8:
Town Sedan 3269 68-33269
Club Coupe 3277 68-33277

Cutlass V-8:
2-Seat Station Wagon 3635 68-33635
Holiday Sedan 3639 68-33639
Convertible 3667 68-33667
Town Sedan 3669 68-33669
Sports Coupe 3677 68-33677
Holiday Coupe 3687 68-33687

Cutlass Supreme V-8:
Holiday Sedan 4239 68-34239
Town Sedan 4269 68-34269
Holiday Coupe 4287 68-34287

Custom Vista Cruiser V-8:
2-Seat Wagon 4855 68-34855
3-Seat Wagon 4865 68-34865

4-4-2 High Performance V-8:
Convertible 4467 *68-33667
Sports Coupe 4477 *68-33677
Holiday Coupe 4487 *68-33687

*Special note: 33600 models shown with a * in the Fisher Model Code
have
the Hi Performance V-8 and are designated the 4-4-2, which is the
4400
series in the Oldsmobile Sales Model Code

So there you have it. The 1969 table is the same (with an additional
discrepancy
on the wagons to differentiate the dual-action tailgate from the normal
unit).
Note that not only does the 442 get a body code that doesn't match the VIN,
but
so do the six cylinder F-85 and Cutlass models. In researching this further,
it
appears that Fisher Body only had four different configurations for the
bodies
they produced for Oldsmobile: F-85, Cutlass, Cutlass Supreme, and Vista
Cruiser.
Naturally, Fisher Body didn't care if the car would be getting a six or an
eight, as all the changes were in the chassis. The only differences which
mattered to them were in the interior trim and exterior chrome. This also
applies to the 442, which (in 68-69) had Cutlass interior panels and
exterior
chrome trim.
I hope this clears up the mystery of the 344XX VIN with the 336XX body
plate.
Oddly enough, the '69 Shop manual lists the "Chassis Designation" and "Sales
and
Scheduling Code" as basically the same, and says that the body plate should
have
the "Division Series" number in it, which it lists as "34400" for the 442.
Oh,
well, just goes to show that you can't go by just one factory publication.
[ Thanks to Joe Padavano, Bob Barry for this information ]

1964:
Authentication:

No 455's or 400's, only 330's.
It should have a metallic gold 330 CID engine. The ID/Code 1 should be
cast
into the front left and right rear part of the heads. They only came
with a
4 speed, 4-barrel carb, dual-exhaust, front and rear sway bars. B09
option
code should be found on any options listing.
Dual-snorkel air cleaner with three 442 bands, one red "4", one orange
"4",
one yellow "2". The 442 air cleaner's base was the same as the single
snorkel's base.
The 442 emblems are located on both front fenders (ahead of the wheels),
and
on the right rear of the trunk. These are the same as the ones used in
1965.
The reproduced emblems are actually different, but only in the
positioning
of the mounting pins. Once on the car, you can't tell the difference.
Jetaway "2.5 speed" transmission (marketed that way due to the
switch-pitch
converter).
The 442 option was available on any mid-size V-8 powered F-85 model except
the
station wagon. Option cost was $136. The Cutlass 330 was rated at 290hp,
while
the 442's was rated at 310hp. Both the 290hp and 310hp had 10.25
compression.
"Heavy Duty" frames were even available on 65-66 442's. What they did was
put
a convertible frame under a hardtop, just like the police cars. There is
no
difference I am aware of for the 66-67 frames.
Three small 442 badges indentified it on the front fenders and on the
trunk.
These 442's are easy to fake because they were an option, had no special
3xxx
Olds number or VIN range, and all the parts (except the dual snorkel) were
already available.
Model Units
F-85 Club Coupe 148
F-85 Sedan 3
Deluxe Sedan 7
Cutlass Club Coupe 563
Cutlass Holiday Coupe 1842
Cutlass Convertible 436
Total: 2999

Engine specs:
330cu. in., 4bbl Rochester, 10.25 CR, 310 hp@5200, 355 ft/lbs torque@3600.
Transmissions:
4-spd manual, floor
Rear Axles:

Standard:
3.23
Optional:
2.78
3.36
3.90

Performance Data:
¼ mile time 15.5, 0 to 60 time 7.5 (4spd man)
[ Thanks to Jason Labay, Bob Barry for this information ]

1965:
Authentication:

No 455's or 330's, only 400's.
Jetaway "2.5 speed" transmission (marketed that way due to the
switch-pitch
converter).
Not available on 4-door sedan models, just 2 door coupes, hardtops and
convertibles. No Deluxe model was eligible for the 442 option. Cost of the
442
option was $190.45 on the standard and $156.02 on the Cutlass. Marked the
beginning of 442's with big blocks as standard.
Model Units 3spd 4spd Auto
F-85 Club Coupe 1087 109 736 242
Cutlass Club Coupe 5713 287 3164 2262
Cutlass Holiday Coupe 14735 204 8140 6391
Cutlass Convertible 3468 90 1695 1683
Total 25,003 690 13735 10578

Engine specs:
400 cu in, 4-bbl Rochester, 10:25.1 CR, 345 hp@4800, 440 ft/lbs
torque@3200.

Transmissions:
Standard:
3 spd manual column
Optional:
4 spd manual floor
2 spd auto column

Rear Axles:
Standard:
3.08 w/auto
3.23 w/manual
Optional:
3.23 w/auto
3.55 w/auto
3.55 w/manual
4.11 or 4.33 gears could be dealer installed after coming from the
factory
with 3.90's.
Performance Data:
Car&Driver 0 to 60: 5.5, ¼ mile: 15.0@98, MPG 10-16 (4spd man, 3.55
rear)
[ Thanks to Jason Labay, Bob Barry, Ron Forsee for this information ]

1966:
Authentication:

No 455's, only 400's.
Jetaway "2.5 speed" transmission (marketed that way due to the
switch-pitch
converter).
Engine Applications:Model Units 4bbl Tri-carb
Standard Club Coupe 647 490 157
Deluxe Holiday Coupe 1217 1039 178
Cutlass Sport Coupe 3787 3404 383
Cutlass Holiday Coupe 13493 12322 1171
Cutlass Convertible 2853 2653 240
Total 21997 19868 2129
Transmission Applications:Model 3spd 4spd Auto
Standard Club Coupe 103 456 88
Deluxe Holiday Coupe 88 798 331
Cutlass Sport Coupe 221 2422 1144
Cutlass Holiday Coupe 297 8025 5171
Cutlass Convertible 62 1448 1343
Total 771 13149 8077

All tripower (L69) equipped 442's were 4-speeds. An over-the-counter 3x2
bbl
package was available from the dealer.
Grille was different from other F-85's, small chromed trim vents were
placed
in front fenders just to the rear of the wheels. For $114 over the 442
cost a
tri-carb 360 hp engine was available. Five models were offered with the
442
package.
Engine Specs:
400 cu in, 4-bbl Rochester, 10.50 CR, 350 hp@5000, 440 ft/lbs
torque@3600
400 cu in, (3) 2bbl rochesters, 10.50 CR, 360 hp@5000, 440 ft/lbs
torque@3600

Transmissions:
Standard:
3 spd manual floor
Optional:
4 spd manual floor Hurst shifter
4 spd manual floor Hurst close-ratio shifter
2 spd auto column

Rear Axles:
Standard:
3.23 3 spd manual or Jetway auto
3.55 either 4 spd manual
Optional:
3.55 3 spd manual or Jetway auto
3.90 all except 3 spd
4.11 dealer installed except in 3.23 axle cars
4.33 dealer installed except in 3.23 axle cars

Performance Data:
Car&Driver ¼ mile: 14...@100.55, MPG 11.5 (4spd man, 3.55 rear)
[ Thanks to Jason Labay, Bob Barry for this information ]

1967:
Authentication:

No 455's, only 400's.
There is a possibility that early 1965 442s had 425's before the new 400
CID
big blocks were ready. Some original cars have been seen. But be aware
that
General Motors was very strict about the 400 CID limit in A-bodies.
Numerous external changes to cars equipped with the 442 option. Special
fender
paint trim and a louvered hood were two. Tri-Carb was replaced by an air
induction version. Turnpike Cruising package included a 400 engine with a
2bbl. The new top line was called Cutlass Supreme and the 442 was only
offered
in these models.
Model Units 3spd 4spd Auto
Cutlass Sports Coupe 4751 422 2535 1793
Cutlass Holiday Coupe 16998 409 7661 8928
Cutlass Convertible 3080 87 1185 1807
Total 24833 918 11381 12528

Engine Specs:
Standard: 400cu in, 4bbl-rochester, 10.50 CR, 350 hp@5000, 440 ft/lbs
torque@3600
Force-Air: 400cu in, 4bbl-rochester, 10.50 CR, 360 hp@5000, 440 ft/lbs
torque@3600
Turnpike: 400cu in, 2bbl=rochester, 10.50 CR, 300 hp@4600, 425 ft/lbs
torque@3000

Transmissions:
Standard:
3 spd manual Hurst floor shifter
Optional:
4 spd manual close ratio Hurst floor shifter
4 spd manual wide ratio Hurst floor shifter
2 spd auto column
floor shifter optional on auto with console

Rear Axles:
Standard:
3.08 turbo hydra-matic
3.23 3spd manual
3.55 4 spd wide ratio manual
3.90 4 spd special ratio manual
Optional:
3.23 turbo hydra-matic
3.42 any transmission
3.55 any transmission
3.90 3spd or turbo hydra-matic
3.91 4spd wide ratio
4.11 dealer installed on 3.55 or 3.90 axle cars
4.33 dealer installed on 3.55 or 3.90 axle cars

Performance Data:
No data.
[ Thanks to Jason Labay, Ron Forsee, Tony Waldner for this information ]

1968:
Authentication:

No 455's, only 400's.
Apparently, for some reason Lansing 442's (at least) came off the line
with
regular Cutlass body plates, even though the VIN is correct for a 442.
This
has been verified by some original-owners of '68-'69 442's on this list.
Air cleaner housing: The correct color for all 4bbl 442's (non
W-machines)
is an Orange/Red. W cars had a black base and a chrome lid, and 2bbl 400
442's had a black air cleaner that was identical to the one used on 2bbl
small block cars.
Made a subseries in itself, new body shape using GM's 112 inch wheelbase,
a
black mesh grille with 442 identification. Production of the 442 for the
1968
model year was a record.
Model Units
Sports Coupe 4282
Hardtop Coupe 24183
Convertible 5142
Total 33607

Engine Specs:
Standard: 400cu in, 4-bbl rochester, 10.50 CR, 350 hp@4800 (325 hp
w/AT),
440 ft/lbs torque@3200
Forced-Air: 400cu in, 4-bbl rochester, 10.50 CR, 360 hp@5400, 440 ft/lbs
torque@3600
Turnpike Cruiser: 400cu in, 2-bbl rochester, 9.0 CR, 290 hp@4600, 425
ft/lbs
torque@2400
Transmissions:
Standard:
3 spd manual Hurst floor shifter
Optional:
4 spd manual close ratio Hurst floor shifter
4 spd manual wide ratio Hurst floor shifter
2 spd auto
floor shifter optional on auto with console

Rear Axles:
3spd 4spd wr 4spd cr Auto
350 hp: 3.23s,c 3.42s,n 3.91s,n
engine 3.08o,n 3.08o 3.42o,n
3.42o,n 3.23o,a,c 4.33o,n,d
3.91o,n 4.66o,n,d
4.33o,n
4,66o,n,d
325 hp: 3.08s,c
engine 3.31o,c
3.42o,n
3.91o,n
4.33o,n,d
4.66o,n,d
290 hp: 2.56s
engine 2.78o
3.08o,c
360 hp: 3.42o,n 4.33s,n,d,r 3.42s,n
engine 3.91o,n,d,r 4.33o,n,d,r
4.66o,n,d 4.66o,n,d

s = standard
o = optional
a = std w/air cond
n = not available w/air cond
c = canadian built cars have 2.78, 3.07, 3.31
instead of 2.73. 3.08 and 3.23 respectively
d = dealer installed
r = anti-spin diff. required

Performance Data:
W-30(a) 442 std. 442(b) L65(b)
hp@rpm 360@5400 350@4800 325@4800 290@4600
torque@rpm 440@3600 440@3200 440@3200 425@2400
displacement 400ci 400ci 400ci 400ci
comp. ratio 10.50-1 10.50-1 10.50-1 9.00-1
carb 4bbl 4bbl 4bbl 2bbl
exhaust dual single single single
Note:
(a): With force-air induction system
(b): Available with automatic transmission

[ Thanks to Jason Labay, Bob Barry for this information ]

1969:
Authentication:

No 455's, only 400's.
Block should be 396026 G with C heads. Your strongest proof would be a
numbers-matching (to the VIN) 400 CID engine.
Carb number should be 7029251.
Apparently, for some reason Lansing 442's (at least) came off the line
with
regular Cutlass body plates, even though the VIN is correct for a 442.
This
has been verified by some original-owners of '68-'69 442's.
Used a 31/32" front sway bar with a cyst-like nub on the passenger side.
The
Cutlass front sway bar is square on the ends. The 442 front sway bar, is
somewhat fatter, (.970" vs the Cutlass .937" in dia.), but it has
rounded
ends with a rounded extrusion on the end. Call it a sway bar "cyst" if
you
will. Someone swapping this item, would REALLY have to know what they
were
doing.
Rocket emblems in place of the "S" or "CS" on the door panels right
above
the arm rests. Most forgers miss that detail, so it is a good quick and
dirty check to make in case you can't open the hood or read the VIN tag.
I
think 95% of forgers would overlook the rocket emblem.
The body plate business has been documented before and it is in fact
likely
that a 1969 4-4-2 will have a Cutlass body code on the plate.
Grille was split in the center with a wide divider on which 442 appeared.
Turnpike cruising option deleted. It also had paint stripes outlining the
"power bulges" on the hood and a single pinstripe at the trunk edge,
outlining
the tail lights, 442 badging, special grill, (blacked-out egg-crate) and
woodgrain applique on the dash. It came with 14 X 6 wheels
Model Units
Sports coupe 2475
Hardtop coupe 19587
Convertible 4295
Total 26357

Engine specs:
Base: 400cu in, 4bbl-rochester, 10.50 CR, 350 hp@4800 (325 hp@4600
w/AT),
440torque@3200
W-30: 400 cu in, 4bbl-rochester, 10.50 CR, 360 hp@5400, 440torque@3600
W-31: 350cu in, 4bbl-rochester, 10.50 CR, 325 hp@4600, 360torque@3600
Transmissions:
Standard:
3 spd manual Hurst floor shifter
Optional:
4 spd manual close ratio Hurst floor shifter
4 spd manual wide ratio Hurst floor shifter
2 spd manual auto column
floor shifter optional on auto with console

Rear axle:
3spd 4spd wr 4spd cr Auto
350 hp: 3.23s 3.42s,n 3.91s,n
engine 2.56o 3.08o 3.42o,n
2.78o 3.23o,a 4.33o,n,d
3.08n 4.66o,n,d 3.08n
3.42o,n
3.91o,n
4.33o,n
4.66o,n,d
325 hp: 2.78s
engine 3.08o
3.31o
3.42o,n
3.91o,n
4.33o,n,d
4.66o,n,d
360hp: 3.42s 4.33s,n,d,r 3.42s,n
engine 2.73o 3.42o,n 3.91o,n
3.08o 3.91o,n,d,r 4.33o,n,d,r
3.23o 4.66o,n,d 4.66o,n,d
3.91o
4.33o
4.66o
s = standard
o = optional
a = std w/air cond
n = not available w/air cond
d = dealer installed
r = anti-spin diff. required

Performance Data:
No data.
[ Thanks to Jason Labay, Bob Barry, Mike Rothe, Scott Mullen, Greg
Beaulieu
for this information ]

1970:
Authentication:

All 455's.
If original front fenders are claimed, check the spacing between the two
"4's" on the "442" emblems. The 4's should almost touch each other (very
slight space, about 1/8") while the middle "4" and the "2" have a little
larger space between them.
If the fenders are original they will be flat on the inner edge where
the
hood sits. '71-'72 fenders have bumps every several inches or so. Both
should have red inner fenders and two braces just behind them.
If the car is a four speed, it should not have power brakes.
Few exterior changes except for a unique grille made of vertical black
rectangles, fenders, rear quarters, trunk lid and both bumpers. The 400
was
replaced by the 455. The W-31 option was continued in the F-85 and Cutlass
S,
these cars were easily identified by W-31 identification on the front
fender
striping. New option was offered on the F-85 and Cutlass S called the
Rallye
350. The Rallye 350 used the 350cu in. 310 hp engine and came in Sebring
Yellow with orange and black decal hood patches and side trim. A rear deck
spoiler was available on the Rallye 350, 442 and W models. The W-25 OAI
fiberglass hood was optional for all Cutlass variations.
Model VIN Units
Sports Coupe 344770 1688
Hardtop Coupe 344870 14709
Convertible 2933
Rallye 350 3547
Total 22877

Engine Specs:
Base: 455cu in, 4-bbl rochester, 10.50 CR, 365 hp@5000rpm, 500 ft/lbs
torque@3200rpm
W-30: 455cu in, 4bbl-rochester, 10.50 CR, 370 hp@5200rpm, 500 ft/lbs
torque@3600rpm
W-31: 350cu in, 4-bbl rochester, 10.50 CR, 325 hp@5400rpm, 360 ft/lbs
torque@3600rpm
Rallye 350: 350cu in, 4-bbl rochester, 10.25 CR, 310 hp@4800rpm, 390
ft/lbs
torque@3200rpm
Transmissions:
3 spd floor manual
4 spd floor manual wide ratio (M-20)
4 spd manual close ratio (M-21)
4 spd manual close ratio heavy duty (M-22)
3 spd auto*
*Hurst Dual Gate Shifter in console was an available option in all
bucket seat models

Rear Axles:
3spd 4spd WR 4spd CR Auto
365hp 3.23s,a 3.42s 2.56s
engine 3.08o 2.78o
3.42o 3.08o
3.23o,a
3.42o
370hp 3.42s 3.42s
engine 3.91o 3.23o,a
3.91o
325hp 3.91s 3.91s 3.91s 3.91s
engine 3.42o 3.42o 3.42o 3.42o
310hp 3.08s 3.08s 3.42s 2.78s
engine 2.78o 3.23o 3.91o 2.56o
3.23o 3.42o 3.08o
3.42o 3.23o
3.91o 3.42o
3.91o
s = standard
o = optional
a = std w/air cond

Performance Data:
¼ mile time: 13...@100.78mph (Hot Rod mag., W-30 engine, automatic, 3.91
rear)

¼ mile time: 14...@96.05mph (Hot Rod mag., W-31 engine, automatic, 3.91
rear)
[ Thanks to Jason Labay, Bobby Etzel, Mike Rothe, Danny for this
information ]

1971:
Authentication:

All 455's.
'71-'72 fenders have bumps every several inches or so, on the inner edge
where the hood sits. Whereas, original 1970 fenders will be flat. Both
should have red inner fenders and two braces just behind them.
If the car is a four speed, it should not have power brakes.
There were no sport coupes in the 442 series. The Rallye 350 and W-31
option
was dropped. Engines were detuned to meet federal exhaust emission
standards.
The W-25 OAI fiberglass hood was optional for all Cutlass variations.
I think for the most part the compression was dropped to 8.0 or 8.5 to run
unleaded and possibly to reduce emissions. I don't really remember offhand
but
I think the cams were less aggressive too. The HP ratings also went from
gross
to net around 1971, so even though the actual numbers are smaller, the
power
output is similar.
Model Units
Hardtop Coupe 6285
Convertible 1304
Total 7589

Engine Specs:
Base: 455cu in, 4-bbl rochester, 8.50 CR, 270 hp(net)@4600rpm, 370
ft/lbs
torque(net)@3200rpm
W-30: 455cu in, 4-bbl rochester, 8.50 CR, 280 hp(net)@4700rpm, 370
ft/lbs
torque(net)@3200rpm
Transmissions:
3 spd manual w/Hurst shifter
4 spd manual wide ratio w/Hurst shifter
4 spd manual close ratio w/Hurst shifter (only available w/ W-30
option)
3 spd automatic (Hurst shifter available at extra cost)

Rear Axles:
Standard:
3.23 Turbo Hydra-Matic
3.23 3-spd manual
3.42 4-spd manual

Performance Data:
No data.

1972:
Authentication:

'71-'72 fenders have bumps every several inches or so, on the inner edge
where the hood sits. Whereas, original 1970 fenders will be flat.
Special striping on hood, trunk (deleted on trunk if W-35 spoiler
added),
and sides.
442 exterior-only badging (Cutlass plate was on glovebox). Special
grill.
With the 455, you got the cutout bumper and dual exhausts and chrome
tips.
442 was now an option package. It was not a performance option, but
handling
and trim. There were only minor external appearance changes from 1971.
1972
marked the end of 442's with big blocks as standard. The 350 engine was
now an
option. The W-25 OAI fiberglass hood was optional on all Cutlass
variations.
The 442 trim package was available on the Cutlass (350 2bbl), Cutlass S
(350 2
bbl), and Cutlass Supreme (convertible only, 350 4 bbl). The Cutlass and
Cutlass S could be ordered with the L34 engine (350 4bbl), and all of them
could be ordered with the L75 engine (455 4bbl). If you got a automatic
trans
with any of these you got 2.73 gears standard. You could order 3.08 or
3.23
gears with any of the engines with an automatic. If you had a manual trans
you
got 3.23 gears, period. The exception is if you got a W-30, in which case
the
gears were 3.42 (auto or manual) with 3.73 optional (auto or manual).
The OAI hood was a separate option, and the notched bumper came standard
with
the 455 motor. All small block cars came without notched bumper unless
specificly ordered. BTW, there was no additional cost when ordering
different
gears.
It turns out that the "colonnade" styling from 1973 was originally
intended to
be released for the 1972 model year. A strike at GM forced the delay of
those
cars and the stretch of the 1971 cars to cover 1972. If you look closely,
there is very little difference between the 1971 and 1972 A-bodies. The
442
grilles, for example, are identical, with the only difference being the
1971's
are painted black and the 1972's are silver. Similarly, the tail light
lenses
are also the same, with the exception that the 1971's are solid and the
1972's
have bars dividing each lens into three parts. Bumpers in both cases are
identical, as are hoods.
Model Units
Cutlass Hardtop 751
Cutlass S Sports Coupe 123
Cutlass S Hardtop 7800
Cutlass Supreme Convertible 1041
Total 9715

Engine/Model UsageEngine Model Units
L32/L34 Coupe/Hardtop 8015
Convertible 1058
Total 9073

W-30 Coupe/Hardtop 659
Convertible 113
Total 772
Transmission/Model UsageTrans Model Units
3spd Coupe/Hardtop 240
Convertible 15
Total 255
4spd Coupe/Hardtop 1121
Convertible 131
Total 1252
Auto Coupe/Hardtop 7313
Convertible 1025
Total 8338

Engine Specs:
L32: 350cu in, 2-bbl rochester, 8.50 CR, 160 hp@4000rpm, 275 ft/lbs
torque@2400rpm (base engine)
L34: 350cu in, 4-bbl rochester, 8.50 CR, 180 hp@4000rpm, 275ft/lbs
torque@2800rpm
W-30: 455cu in, 4-bbl rochester, 8.50 CR, 300 hp@4400rpm, 410ft/lbs
torque@3200rpm
L75: 455cu in, 4-bbl rochester, 8.50 CR, 270 hp@4400rpm, 370ft/lbs
torque@3200rpm
Transmissions:
3 spd manual column (c)
4 spd manual floor
3 spd TH-350 auto (a,c)
3 spd TH-400 auto (b,c)
a = only 350 CID engines
b = only 455 CID engines
c = available with console at extra cost

Rear Axles:

Standard:
3.23 Turbo Hydra-Matics
3.23 3-spd manual
3.42 4-spd manual

Performance Data:
No data.
[ Thanks to Jason Labay, Mike Rothe for this information ]

1973:
Authentication:
There are no special I.D. numbers.
Check for 442 option package items noted below.
The VIN's fifth digit will tell you what engine should be installed.
9,797 442's were built in 1973 (251 Cutlass's and 9,546 Cutlass "S").
Built on the Cutlass "S" body style. Slanted rear glass and large rear
quarter
windows - not the Cutlass Supreme w/opera-like quarter windows & notch
back
roof. The 442 was just an option package, coded W-29, and costing $120.00.
It
was not availble on the Supreme.
This W-29 option gave you emblems, H.D. suspension, front and rear swap
bars,
and grille that was blacked out with large silver pleats done vertically -
about 4 to a side. A special fiberglass hood with louvers, and stripes
down
the hood, fenders, ¼ panels, and trunk lid. These dual Stripes go over the
hood and deck, but not the roof.
You could have bucket or bench seats. This year's 442 does not have to
have
gauges, sport steering wheel, swivel bucket seats w/console, SSII wheels,
or
dual exhausts. These were options on any Cutlass S, but not standard on a
442.

Engine Specs:
250 CID 6 cyl., 350 2 and 4 bbl., and 455 2 and 4 bbl.
Transmissions:
TH-350 (250, 350 CID only)
TH-400 (455 CID only)

Rear Axles:
2.73, 3.08, 3.23, 3.42 (Anti-Spin available on all axles).
Performance Data:
No data.

1974:
Authentication:

Built on the Cutlass body style.
Engine Specs:
Transmissions:
Rear Axles:
Performance Data:
No data.

1975:
Authentication:

Built on the Cutlass body style.
Engine Specs:
Transmissions:
Rear Axles:
Performance Data:
No data.

1976:
Authentication:

9,576 were made in 1976.
Built on the Cutlass body style. The 442 option (W-29) included special
body
stripes, heavy duty springs, firm ride shocks, larger sway bars, and 7"
wheels.
Engine Specs:
A Chevy V-6, Olds 260, 350, or 455 V-8 was available.
Transmissions:
The 260 could be had with a 5-speed manual.
Rear Axles:
Performance Data:
No data.

1977:
Authentication:

There were 11,649 442 Cutlass S Coupe's made in 1977. The second largest
production year next to 1970. Shipping weight was 3535 lbs. Base price
with
the 442 option was $4520.
The 1977 442 included a stripe kit, handling package, a different snout
(nose), different header panel, and the black trim on the bumpers had no
white
stripe.
Plastic replaced the chrome on the 1977 compared to the 1976.
Engine Specs:
The 403 has a 8.00 compression ratio, 4bbl Rochester M4MC carb. Factory
rated at 185 hp@3600 and 320 ft/lbs torque@2200.
Transmissions:
Standard:
3 speed TH-400 automatic
Optional:
4 speed manual

Rear Axles:
Standard:
2.56 TH-400 auto
2.56 4 spd manual

Performance Data:
Car & Driver ¼ mile time of 17.30@79.3 mph and 17.5 mpg.

1978:
Authentication:

Built on the Cutlass Salon body style. Offered with Chevy 305 engine.
Engine Specs:
Olds 260, Chevy 350, among others.
Transmissions:
260 and available 5-speed.
Rear Axles:
Performance Data:
No data.
[ Thanks to Tom Lentz for this information ]

1979:
Authentication:

Built on the Cutlass Salon body style.
Engine Specs:
Transmissions:
Rear Axles:
Performance Data:
No data.

1980:
Authentication:

Built on the Cutlass Supreme body style. 442 gave the "aeroback" Cutlass a
350.
Engine Specs:
Transmissions:
Rear Axles:
Performance Data:
No data.

1985:
Authentication:

The VIN "9" engine code shows it is a 442.
Look for option code W-42 on the build sheet or the service sticker (in
trunk lid).
Sometimes (and I say this because they DIDN'T always put them on) there
is a
little cowl tag on under the hood. This will also have the W-42 option
listed on it. The Arlington assembly plant said that if they had them
when
the car was built, they put them on, but if not, oh well. That's because
they were wanting to go strictly with the trunk lid mounted service
sticker.

1986:
Authentication:

1987:
Authentication:

It better have the dual snorkel intake with a chrome lid.
Also, check the transmission code "OZ"on the passenger side of the
tranny.
This item is indigenous ONLY to the 1983 to 1987 Hurst/442. Look for a
"kickdown" switch above the gas pedal. This looks like the old Turbo 400
passing gear detent switch with a little slide switch activated at full
throttle. This is actually the full throttle A/C compressor clutch
cutout
switch. It cuts out the A/C clutch when it's mashed to the floor.
Also, check to see if the tire pressure sticker is still on the driver's
door, it will list 215/65/15 as the tire size, again, ONLY on the
Hurst/442
in those years.
Built on the Cutlass Supreme body style. Option code W42 is for the 1985
to
1987 Olds 442 model. Only differnce between 1986 and 1987 is the front
fascia
and head lights.
Here's what the '87 Olds SPECS books says about the option W-42
($2577.00):
W42 Cutlass 442 Package, Features a Special Paint Scheme of 15 Medium Gray
Metallic, 19 Black, 31 Dark Teal Blue Metallic or 79 Burgandy Metallic
Primary
Color with 12 Silver Metallic Secondary Lower Accent Color Separated by
Gold
Metallic Accent Stripe Decals (D85). Also Gold Metallic Stripe Over the
Wheel
Openings. Headlamp Bezels are Black with Bright Edges. Amber Park/Turn
Lamp
Lenses (T88); Front and Rear Bumpers Silver, Color-Coordinated to Match
Lower
Body Accent. "442" Decals of Front Doors, Front-End Panel, Rear-End Panel
and
Interior on Doors;
Air Conditioning, Four-Season (C60); Mirrors, Color-Coordinated Outside,
Driver Side Remote - Passenger Side Manual (D35); Console with Floor
Shifter
(D55); Level II Firm Ride and Handling Suspension System (F41) with Air
Rear
Shock Absorbers;
Steering Wheel, Leather Wrapped Sport (NP5); Wheels, 15", Chrome-Styled
with
Gold Accent (N83); Tires, P215/65R15 Steel-Belted Radial-Ply, Blackwall
(QYZ);
Cluster, Instrument Panel Rallye (U21); Cooling Equipment, High Capacity
(V08)
and Guards, Bumper Front and Rear (V30). (Available only on R47 with the
Following Exterior Primary and Secondary Paint Colors and Interior Trim
Combinations: 15-12 or 19-12 with Trim W4, 31-12 with Trim W3 and 79-12
with
Trim W5. D68 Available - N.A. with BX2, B85, C04, DR5, D84, D88, D90, LD5,
LV2, N66, N78, N91, QHW, QHY, QJR, QMW or QMX)

Engine Specs:
5.0-liter V-8, 4-bbl. Carburetor H.O. (LG8) with Dual Outlet Exhaust
System
Transmissions:
Transmission, 4-Speed Automatic with Overdrive (MX0)
Rear Axles:
Axle, 3.73 ratio (GT4)
Performance Data:
No data.
[ Thanks to Mike Rothe for this information ]

1990:
Authentication:

Built on the Cutlass Calais body style. FWD and Quad 4 powered.
Engine Specs:
Transmissions:
Rear Axles:
Performance Data:
No data.

1991:
Authentication:

Built on the Cutlass Calais body style. FWD and Quad 4 powered.
Engine Specs:
Transmissions:
Rear Axles:
Performance Data:
No data.
[ Thanks to Bob Handren, Jeff Hunter, Jason Labay, Rob Malland, Mark Prince,
Greg Pruett, Joe Padavano, Jeff Easton, Jon Wessel, Kurt Heinrich, Frank
Gonzalez, Mike Evans, John Schumacher, Paul Hartlieb, Bill Culp, Jim
Chermack,
Doug Ahern, Bill Reilly for this information ]

Miscellaneous
Chrome Trumpets
NAPA has the correct tail pipes and exhaust trumpets available. They will
have
to look them up in the parts book with the regular exhaust parts for the
4-4-2. These are not to be confused with their accessory tips in another
catalog. Their exhaust catalog also lists the correct replacement hangers.
NAPA's exhaust products are made by "Walker" and should be available at
any
parts store or speed shop that sells "Walker" or "Dynomax" products. The
part
number for the Walker tips is 35614.
The tailpipes, chrome trumpets, and hangers are dead ringers for the
originals. The trumpets still look good after 12 years. BTW, I used clamps
to
hold the trumpets onto the pipes so I did not have to weld them and screw
up
the chrome. I pointed the threaded part of the clamps toward the trunk
floor
so they would not show. A little unhandy to tighten up, but worth it.
If you want the best tip available, buy the tips Brothers Auto
(1-800-442-PART) sells. They are made of an alloy called Inconel, commonly
used in helicopter and airplane exhaust. Inconel has a very high nickel
content so it takes chrome beautifully. The Inconel tips will last
forever. I
have a pair with slightly over 40,000 miles and they still look like new.
Brothers only charges $49 a set for these.
[ Thanks to Dave Wyatt, Steve, John Pajak, others for this information ]
Pace Cars
1970 Indy Pace Car
Option code Y-74. If it's a real Y-74, the cowl tag would be stamped Y74.
One book says the 1970 pace car came standard with the 455 and that "some
Cutlass Pace Cars have the 350 4bbl". The ACTUAL pace cars were 442s that
used
W-30 heads and distributor. The rest of the cars used at Indy (49 of 'em)
were
Cutlass versions, all having the 455.
However, a copy of a memo from the Olds Division that states that the W-30
option was not available with Y74.
1972 Indy Pace Car

1974 Indy Pace Car

1985 Indy Pace Car
The Pace Car Replica car had special aluminum wheels, spoiler, Calais 500
emblems, and a special silver leather interior. It was otherwise a stock
Calais, with either the Pontiac Iron Duke 151 CID 4 cyl or the optional
Buick
V-6 (I think in 3.0 liter size. The Indy Pace Car decals were optional.
[ Thanks to Wes Fujii, Jon Wessel, Joe Padavano for this information ]
Quad 442 Performance Parts
Try Olds MotorSports. They have a catalog on high performance items for
the
Quad 4, such as cams, +/- degree cam sprockets, beefier CV shafts and
such.
The catalogs are availible from any Oldsmobile Dealership.
From talking to the guys at Mantapart, a Quad 4 racing speed shop, there
are
many modifications that will increase performance. Intake, exhaust, cams,
chips, port & polish etc. Expen$ive. The W-41s have different cams,
exhaust,
tranny gears, and a 3.94 differential. I believe that is what makes most
of
the difference.
Mantapart Performance Products
New Springfld, OH 44443
Phone: (330)549-3188
[ Thanks to Mark Prince, Jeff V. for this information ]
Striping
442 striping kits are somewhat rare. Some aftermarket companies are
starting
to make repro kits (like Lauren Eng.).
Part Numbers for 1985 to 1987 442 Exterior Stripes:
Black Gray Dk Blue Dk Red White
Part Description 1985-87 1985-87 1986-87 1986-87 1985
Stripe: F/Bpr Rub Strip - RH 22528704 same same same same
Stripe: F/Bpr Rub Strip - LH 22528705 same same same same
Decal: F/Bpr Fascia "442" 25528697 same same same same
Decal: F/Fascia "442" (1987) 25530186 same same same same
Stripe: F/FDR-RH 22528698 22528736 25529168 25529174
22528722
Stripe: F/FDR-LH 22528699 22528737 25529169 25529175
22528723
Decal: Door Letters "442" 22528708 same same same same
Door: Stripe 22528700 22528738 25529172 25529173
22528724
Stripe: R/QTR-RH 22528702 22528740 25529170 25529176
22528726
Stripe: R/QTR-LH 22528703 22528741 25529171 25529177
22528727
Stripe: R/BPR Rub Strip-RH 22528706 same same same same
Stripe: R/BPR Rub Strip-LH 22528707 same same same same
Trunk "442" (Gold) 22528697 same same same same
Emblem: Trunk "Oldsmobile" 20000969 same same same same
The parts that are color specific are listed. If "same" is listed, that
means
it is just gold stripes w/o a color backing as a seperator for the top and
bottom colors.
[ Thanks to Brad Nicholson for this information ]
1980's Wheels
The 15 x 7 GM Chrome Oldsmobile wheels that came on the 442 and Hurst in
the
1980's is GM part #22528518, about $300. I don't have the center cap
number.
The 442 and Hurst wheels are different. The 442 wheels are painted gold on
the
inside around the lug-nuts. The Hurst wheels are painted "Argent", which
looks
darn close to chrome to me. Other than the paint, they're the same.
[ Thanks to Peter House, Tom Lentz for this information ]

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