I have a 1957 Chevy/NAPCO truck that came with a 235, later I installed a 261. Then I went to a 283. I used a tubular under engine mount instead of the front engine mounts for the 283. I found the side mounting to be strong and easy to install. My next engine was a 348, and I was able to use the existing side mount with the 348. So for potential future engine installs, the side mounting may provide more flexibility. Also, I wanted the 283 at the time, because I "just wanted a 283." In retrospect the 283 was a great engine, but the low end torque was a little light for my application; My truck has 3:38 differentials and a 3 speed OD trans (I electronically split the gears so it is essentially a 6 speed). The low end grunt of the current 348 is strong. Since small block Chevy engines are about the same install-wise, you might consider a 327, 350, or 383. I think you might be happier with the power over a 283. Unless of course you "just want a 283."
don

Last edited by Donsz; 08/22/2020 12:47 AM.