hoyt,

I'd like to hear someone else's answer to your questions. Oddly, I have not checked my 1954 engines, but will do so tonight. My guess was that the change was made in late 1955.

Does anyone have information on locations for pre-54 235/216 engines?

Thanks,
Tim

Tim
1954Advance-Design.com
1954 3106 Carryall Suburban
1954 3104 5-window pickup w/Hydra-Matic
The 216 and early 235 engines are not "splash oilers" -- this is a splash oiler.