If anyone should wonder about the usefulness of a tractor w/an FEL wonder no more. It definitely makes lifting and moving an engine and other associated heavy objects around very easy.
PicUsing the Kubota BX23 I carried the 350 down to my cleaning station beside the shop and gave the sealed up 350 a well needed degreaseing and bath.
It cleaned up pretty good and I found the engine VIN code numbers at the right front.
According to the numbers it was made on Nov 11 1969 at the Tonawanda plant, is the 300hp version that came with a 4bbl and hydramatic tranny and came in either a Biscayne, Bel Air, Impala or Caprice. No definitive answer on whether it's a 2 or 4 bolt main. Since it's going to be a cruiser for as long as I keep it I'm not overly concerned as 300hp is more than enough for that. Perhaps I stick a scope up the oil drain hole later LOL....
Whilst I was picking up the HEI dist they forgot to include with the engine I measured the distance of the clamshell motor mounts in the C10 that the 350 came out of and compared them with the same clamshell mounts that are in the GMC and they measured out exactly the same width, 16 1/2" center hole to center hole and 22" top to top. Test fitting will determine if they're where I need them or not lengthwise. The mount perches are welded in and I'm not inclined to cut and move them so if they aren't right I'll either make up some plates or try one of those adjustable engine brackets that'll mount to a clamshell style mount. It'll all depend upon how close it is.
The flexplates on the 250 and 350 measured out the same so I decided to try the 250's starter and it bolted right up. Although they have different part #'s, both the 250 & 350 starters use the same Bendix and solenoid. I'm guessing the difference is in output torque. I'm going to try to use the 250 starter and if it works thats $100 saved...
After a good degreasing I gave the 350 a couple good coats of Chevy Orange. Going to stay old school with it.
PicPicDon't pay any attention to the blue VC's, I picked them up for $10 from a local Mom & Pop FLAPS to cover the topend. I've ordered some chrome goodies to replace the parts it ain't got. Chrome = HP right?
I also picked up a pr of 265 exhaust manifolds on ebay. They look to be in good usable condition. The left side has the generator bracket cast it, I'll be leaving it as is as long as it doesn't interfere with anything. Hope they don't sufficate the 350.
PicAnd ordered up the needed gaskets from Rock Auto.
That cross member was definitely cut out Jerry. Once I get the 350 & tranny in and situated I'll look into a brace to shore the frame up behind the spring mounts.
I'd say you are correct goneagain, the hole is too round for a butcher job LOL.
Dave
