There are 2 or 3 different lengths of pushrods, depending on which design of valve lifter the engine has. Just about anytime I look on Ebay, (antique engine parts category) there are several sets of 216/235 pushrods listed, so they're definitely not a scarce item. Just be sure to get the right length ones. Most of the restoration parts places offer new pushrods and/or rocker arms, also.

There's only a 1/16" difference in the bore size between a 216 and a 235, and I believe the crankshaft is the same, so a "pseudo-235" could be made by boring out a 216 .0625" and installing 235 pistons, I suppose. OOPS! Big mistake! I just checked the specifications, and the stroke is WAY different! 216: 3 3/4" stroke. 235: 3 15/16" stroke, so no, there's no way to make a 216 into a 235. If you've got a 216 casting number, that pretty much tells the tale, but the only way to know for sure is to take the head off and measure the cylinder size and stroke. While the head is off- - - - -get it reconditioned and the pushrod-bending problems will go away for good.

Edit: the Hemmings Motor News site lists your block as a 52-53 216 for passenger car and truck application, and the head as a 1949 216 and 235 application. Looks like the head has been swapped at some time in the past.

http://clubs.hemmings.com/clubsites/chevytalk/GMhistory/1916-57cast.html
Jerry



Last edited by Hotrod Lincoln; 09/22/2010 1:55 PM.
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