I didn't see a specific year year you're interested in, however a 1978 Olds 403 is listed as 18 degrees initial timing (detach and plug vacuum advance hose while setting initial advance).
The time chain is located under the timing chain cover, which is behind the fan and under the water pump.
No, the blocks are different.
It's an Olds 403.
yes i think so
The blocks were physically the same size so I don't see why not.
Intake manifold torque specifications for the Olds 403 is listed as 30 ft-lbs.
The spark plug gap for a 1977 Olds 403 is listed as .060 inches.
The Oldsmobile engines typically had a fairly high initial timing....coming in at 18-20 degrees before TDC. That's assuming you're talking about a fairly stock 403.
the first plug on the drivers side up near the radiator.
Near top of water pump
timing CHAIN
There were both small blocks and I'm going to say, yes.