scotts60,
You might want to specify the year of the 235 block you want to use in your 1953 truck.
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The "848" head was produced from 1956-1962 (it is quite common, and it works on any 18-head-bolt 235 block) and it resulted in higher compression. These heads seem to be prone to developing cracks.
How much more prone to crack is the 848 head?
When looking for an exhaust manifold I scored a complete 235 from a 1958 Chevy Biscayne with 40,000 miles that was running fine when pulled to put a small block in.
This is how I now have an 848 head. Though we got it to late in the rebuild for the 54 235 to consider using it. Though it maybe nice to use when the next time the head has to come off or another rebuild has to be done. But that better not happen for many years to come.
Being the 848 has the smaller combustion chamber there is no need to cut the head. Having less metal is never the best option in my mind. I want long life.
Though my question was how much difference would using an 848 head on a 1946 or 1954 235 as increase in HP and MPG.
The amount of difference is needed to make the decision to use the 848 head. Jeffrey
