I put a 261 into my '51 to replace the 216. The 216 didn't have much clearance between the fan and radiator, in fact I almost couldn't get the belt off without pulling the radiator or fan!
When I put in the engine I replaced the radiator and moved it about 1 inch lower to get it closer to the fan. The new radiator was thicker than the original so I had to cut the cross braces and lose part of the top part of the cross brace. Now I've got a bit more clearance than I did with the 216, but not much. Since the belt is now thinner it should be easier to replace, but it is still gonna be a close call.
Anyhow... does anyone know how much clearance there should be? 1/2 inch? 3/4? More?
'51 Chevy 1/2 ton w/'62 261, HEI, offy, fentons, dual carter/webbers, t-5 & 12 bolt posi
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