Installing a 1954 or 55 1st. series crossmember in the firewall area will allow you to use a 1955-62 V8 bellhousing. The crossmember is virtually a bolt-in swap for the 1950, so no permanent modifications to the frame will be involved. The 292 block bolts onto the V8 bellhousing since all the 3rd. generation sixes have the V8 bolt pattern. You'll still have to deal with the extra length somehow when it comes to positioning the radiator.
Jerry

"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt!
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway
Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!