The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 216 to a 235 - choose '53, '55 or '57 engine

I dug out an old "Motor's Service Manual" and this is what I found. The 56-57 heads were 8.00:1 compression whereas the 58-62 were 8.25:1. The earlier 235's were 7.5:1. The 56-57 engines are listed with a BHP of 140 and 210 Ft.Lbs of Torque. The 58-62 are 135 BHP and 217 ft.Lbs. and the 55 and earlier are 112 BHP and 200ft.Lbs.

Basically, any engine from 56 on up has substatially more horsepower (20- 30%) than the earier engines. As far as the Babbitt bearing 235 goes, I would lump it in with the 216, basically a boat anchor. If it turns over and has good compression, leave it alone and run it. As far as rebuilding goes, well dump it.