The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 57 engine swap

Can someone tell me if a '57 235 engine and transmission will "bolt up" to my 49 chevy 1/2 ton without modifications?

There are several good articles on this swap one of which is posted under the "TECH TIPS" section at the top of this sites page.

The other good info is from Patrick's Antique Cars and Trucks.
http://www.patricksantiquecars.com/articles.html
Read on line or request their catalog as it has good info.

In short terms though it is not a unbolt, move, and drop in with a simple bolt back up.

But the swap is much simpler then say adding a V8. I am swapping a 235 into my 48 in place of a 216 that is bad and to me the hardest part is just pulling the engine.

Points of difference that need attention will be front mounting holes (two need drilled most likely), flywheel and bell housing swap, and 6v 12v.

The major consideration/difference is that the 1957 transmission is for an open driveshaft. Your 1949 3100 has an enclosed driveshaft "torque tube" rear end.

You can use your 1949 clutch housing (and clutch assembly) and 1949 transmission and your 1949 rear end - direct bolt-in.

Patrick recommends using a "short-shaft" water pump (that he sels for $$), but this adaptation by Pre '68 Dave is far superior in many regards.