I finally found a nice correct 68 WQ motor to build for my 68 Firebird 400 HO. I got it in the house on the engine stand now. I am in no rush to build it but would like to disassemble it to see what the internals are. I will probable sell the #16 heads on it since I have a set of correct dated ones on my current motor in the car. It also had a few items incorrect, such as a 64 timing cover and a 72 intake that I will sell.

It also came with a set of 69 Long branch exhaust manifolds that are incorrect numbers for my car so I will sell them.

I might be 8nterested in the heads depending upon date code, 11D and 3C car build dates. Some interest in LB manifolds also, prefer otiginals to repops.

The #16 heads are dated B148 and A028. The motor appears to have been rebuilt at some point and the motor was running when removed from a GTO about 6 years ago.

The LB are I188 and I038. The LB need one ear fixed and three bolts remomoved and retapped. Exterior castings look nice.

Right on Harold, good for you. You have a "Mulligan" now! IMO, I would take her down to the short block and leave her at that. Your first engine has the looks, sounds like a 400HO for 68. Your WQ becomes your show piece. I think you get max evaluation with your car now and having these 2 engines is a bonus. I doubt rebuilding WQ will bring you more value. The first build will become redundant.

Think about it and please anyone reading this ... chime in.

That is sort of what I was thinking. Just sell what I can and keep the short block. Just hang onto it and save it for when ever there is a time that I need to freshen my motor. Save the WQ block since it is so rare.

Nice find Harold! Question, looks like the oil filter elbow on your WQ is the one I have. That's the one that clears the long branches right? Also, is that the harbor freight stand it's on? Just bought one to store an extra engine on. It looks sturdy but I haven't tried it yet. How's it working for you?

No the filter that is on it is wrong. For the longbranch exhaust manifolds you have to have the 90degree filter and the adapter. The one on it now is the 120 degree.

The harbor freight stand Does great. No Problem. I'm using the Harbor freight engine hoist too. I has done great too.

Did the factory use the adapter or was there a special stock elbow?

There is a factory OEM adapter and the 90 degree elbow. RAM Air restorations makes a adapter that is better then the OEM one.

Harold,I’m interested in the manifolds.I can be reached at 509 926 2923. Thank you, Andy.

Tore down some of the motor last night to see how the WQ motor is. Found out it is a standard bore. Some freshened up the motor at sometime. Replaced the pistons with some trw 2777p forged pistons standard size. Valve train looked good with no issues. Has correct crank and rods. Cam replaced. Very clean inside did.