The 57 engine won't bolt into the 61 chassis unless you fabricate different motor mounts, and even then, it won't work well. If the engine has not been rebored yet, it's worth enough to a restorer to finance the purchase of a more suitable engine for your project. 57 was the first year of production for the 283, so if you've got a virgin block, you've got a collector's item. One of the chronic problems with the 283's from the late 50's was low oil pressure due to cam bearing wear, even on engines that got a ring and rod bearing job, so a high-volume oil pump is an absolute necessity on all of them that I build.
If you want a small-displacement engine, consider using a mid-80's 305. They're plentiful, and cheap, and with just a little tweaking they will outperform the 283, and get as good, or better fuel mileage. For more performance, use a warmed-over 350.
Jerry
Last edited by Hotrod Lincoln; 06/16/2008 4:00 PM.
