I picked up a early production (Dec. 56) Bel Air 2 door HT, 1957. It has the original 283 engine in place. It is a “FC” coded engine which is the so called “power pack” with a 4bbl and dual exhaust. Not being “my cup of tea””, I’ve been asking anyone who would listen for advice on this car. Hence, this posting. It has been said that the 1957 283c.i. is a punched out (0.120”) 365c.i. block and a one year only production. Chevy produced a new block from 1958 onward for the 283. The 1957 block can’t be bored out any further if it is tired and needs it. Also, it has been said that it is somewhat prone to overheating. Back in the day a large percentage of this engine were replaced under warranty with the old reliable 265. Some advice is to replace the 283 with a ‘well built’ 265 with the right stuff and I’ll be a happy camper.
Your thoughts on this please.
Last edited by beltfed; 12/08/2018 4:34 PM.
