Good info Patrick,
You can use the front mounting plate off the 216 on the 261 as well as the flywheel, clutch, clutch housing and starter if you want to stay 6 volt. Do not use the distributor from the 216 in the 261 because of the steel gear and cast cam incompatibility. Also use the early style water pump off the 216 with the adapter plate for correct fan placement, it will require drilling and tapping two holes in the 261 block but that is done easy enough.
Steve
1953 Chevrolet 3100261 cu inch, sm420, 3.55 rear, torque tube still,omaha orange, still 6 volt, RPO green glass, side carrier spare, all done
In the DITY GalleryVideo of the 261 running1964 GMC 1000305 Big Block V6, sm420, the next cab off restoration
