What's Before Black? Well, the "Black", as you can figure out, refers to the all black 1984-87 Buick Grand Nationals and, of course, the GNX. Yes, other colors were available if you opted for a T Type or Turbo T, but most people understand Grand National. And that means black, all black.
Before Black refers to the Buick V6 engine and the cars that preceded the Fuel Injected Turbo Regals. These are the 1982 Regal Grand National (the only year the GN wasn't black) and cars powered by the 1978-83 Carb/Turbo V6. It also includes all other carbureted Buick V6's a.k.a. NA's (normally aspirated). Even 1984-87 Buick V6 NA's fits this category, since they are basically working with pre-SFI technology.
And why the Pontiac 301T? Well wrapped around that 301 Pontiac motor is Buick technology. The draw-thru turbo, the ESC and rest are taken from the Buick Turbo V6. What works on a Turbo V6 will likely work on a 301T, and vice-versa.
If you haven't already, please take a look at the
BEFORE BLACK Website . Much of it's content originated here on this message board. One thing you will soon realize is that while these engines may not be on par with the later SFI/Turbo V6, they certainly have potential to be performance motors. Hopefully, just as the SFI/Turbo owners have taken advantage of Internet and it's ability to share knowledge, so can we.
Thanks for participating.