The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Cadillac 500 motor position

I have a 1953 one ton looking to put a Cadillac 500 into it and I was just wondering where to place the motor? I've heard just after the original front crossmember but I'm looking for a more accurate measurement.

I have pictures of a 51 half ton with a 500 Cad I did and it looks like the right head is very close to the firewall and the left head clears by about one and a quarter inches. I had to go by firewall clearence for judging where to place the engine. If your using a recessed aftermarket firewall then maybe other measurements will work. The engine, 400 Turbo Hydramatic trans, and factory radiator all fit in without cutting the cab, floor, or core support. Run a 3.08 rear and it could have EASILY pulled one down into the 2's.

The fire wall does give me a better idea as to where it should go I am planning on making a new fire wall just to clean up the look. Actually I'm making all the parts myself so the more pictures and dimensions I can get the better.

I always place the engine as close as possible to the firewall, keeping enough room for clearance for everything when the engine moves.