If you want to mate a different engine (from a 216/235/261) to the torque-tube transmission, wait to hear from someone who has actually done this. Maybe Steve has information on how to do this.
The torque tube transmission, 3 speed or 4 speed will bolt to a '55-'67 V8 truck bellhousing. '60-'62 used a hydraulic clutch and you may not want mess with that.
'68-'91 or so bell housings will also work, but the pilot hole is slightly larger. Novak sells a spacer for this.
You will have a steering gear clearance issue with a V8 or a V6 in the 1950 frame. A '63 or later 250 or 292 straight six may be a better option for a more modern engine and will not interfere with the steering. They also use the same bellhousing as a V8.
The V8 housing will not bolt to your stock crossmember. Ideally, you could change it out for a '54-'55 1st crossmember if you can find one. Or modify it yourself.
