There is not enough room for the 283, without serious modifications, including locating the V8 behind the cab. The hump in the cab floorboard (also called the doghouse) sits right over the valve cover of the 235. Using any 235 requires only a few modifications such as reusing the original valve cover and road draft tube to allow clearance between the floor and engine. A later 235 has a breather on the top where there is not enough room and to add oil you need the road draft tube with removable cap. You would also have to use a short shaft water pump, or better yet, adapter plate with your original water pump.
The later 235 will have a bit more horsepower which certainly helps moving that beast around.
Kent
