I'm going to do a compression check on the 235 as soon as I get time and see what readings I get. My original thought was to keep it as original as I could, but given that the drive line has already been replaced I was thinking the V8 swap might not be a bad idea. It looks like some work has been done to the 235. I see new fittings on some of the lines, the carb has obviously been rebuilt so I'm still trying to see what my options are. There are a few 327s I've found on Craigslist that look promising.
I'm definitely going to be taking it all apart, including removing the cab, since I will have to replace the floor under the gas tank/seat riser. The bed is going to be replaced too. That will allow me to box the frame which will give me the option for more power.
It's already got the 5 lug wheels on the back and 6 lug original wheels on the front. I was thinking about going with a 5 lug set up so I could use Cragers or American Racing 5 spoke wheels. Something about those that I just like the look of. So I guess once I get the body off I'll be able to see exactly what the prior owner put in the rear. It looks like a 10 bolt but that about all I've figured out so far. I have no idea about the year, ratio or if it's a posi or not. The trans is a 4 speed but I'm not sure what kind yet. The Muncie they used in '53 should have a closed drive line, but this one is open. I guess it's one of those things I'm going to have to wait until I get all the panels off to see what it is. I've attached a photo of the top of it trans.
I was thinking about doing a Build Post in that section and posting photos as I progress.
