Hot Rods 215 aluminum engine

I have an aluminum 215 V8.
I need to know how to identify if this a Buick or Oldsmobile.
casting numbers, stampings, date codes?????
Engine came from a single engine boat.
any help is appreciated.

 

Post a picture. Most boats used the Buick version. I think there was a Pontiac too.

 

Buick's version had nearly vertical valve covers that made it look a lot like a nailhead if that helps. Olds valve covers were more normal V8 slanted.

I never found out for sure, but I believe Pontiac shared use of the Olds version of the 215.

They're cool little conversation piece engines. I have an Olds version in my T roadster and have only EVER had 1 person identify what it is.

Lynn

 

Buick on the left, Olds on the right

 

Do the Buick/Olds use the same short block with manufacturer specific heads?
Or is the 215 cu.in displacement just coincidental?
Thanks.

 

Buick has 5 head bolts around each cylinder, Olds has 6.

@pprather Same block, crank and rods. Different head layout, different pistons. A Buick block will have the bosses cast in for the 6th head bolts used on the Olds variant, but they are not drilled or tapped. Below is an Olds block showing the 6th hole above each cylinder in the lifter valley.


And here's a Buick block....

 

Tempest used the Buick version of the 215 in the first two years.

 

this info will help.
thank you

 

Here's a HAMB thread from a number of years ago
https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/hot-rodding-a-buick-215.740708/

This might be a helpful site as well
http://www.aluminumv8.com/

According to the above site, Pontiac used the Olds engine.