For those of you who are considering retrofitting a 235 crankshaft to a 216 engine- - - - -I just made a very important discovery. The #3 main bearing cap- - - -the one that needs to be narrowed on a 216 for a 235 main bearing set and crankshaft to fit- - - -has exactly the same bolt spacing and inside diameter as a 54-63 235 engine. If anyone has a "junk" 235 block- - - - -PLEASE DO NOT DISCARD THE MAIN BEARING CAPS! The 216 block web still has to be machined, but by installing a 235 bearing cap, half the work has already been done for you, and the fore/aft spacing of the main bearing won't be altered, which keeps the timing gears aligned properly. Also, if anyone has some 235 main caps in your parts stash, I'll be glad to buy them, or cover shipping. PM me, please!
BTW- - - -216 and spray-oiler 235 connecting rods can be machined to accept the 235 replaceable rod bearings. The oil hole in the bottom of the rod cap doesn't prevent the later model bearing from fitting properly, with a little TLC by a competent machinist!
Jerry
