The Stovebolt Site Forums The Side Lot Old Dominion Stovebolt Society (MD, VA, West VA, DC, DE and PA) Rebuild 235

OK. Thought I was on the right forum but guess I wasn t. Very new to this so please bear with me. Also probably too long winded. Anyway, here is my problem; I have a 1st series 55 with a 54 235 in it. I need work done on the crank and possibly block and head (oil pump failure and possibly blown head gasket) And it has been sitting for 15-16 yrs. Is there a machine shop (local) that is fairly close and reasonably priced? Like in Leonardtown, Mechanicsville, Lexington Park, California, etc.?? And that would be in Maryland.

Welcome to the Stovebolt!

With that many possible issues and after sitting around for that long you may be WAY ahead of the game to look for a running replacement motor. You should be able to find a good running 235 for about $500 or less. To rebuilding what you have would cost thousands of dollars. It sounds like your motor isn't original to the truck anyway so installing a different motor shouldn't matter.

Mike B

Ditto to what Mike said, Stewart. I had done what you are contemplating and it got really expensive. I really regretted going that route. I have a really strong 216 here you can borrow until you find a suitable engine.

Regards,
John

There seems like a nice 235 for sale right now in the classified section...in Ohio.

Thank you for the advise. I was wondering if it would be cheaper to rebuild or just replace. I saw the 235 for sale in Ohio and I do really appreciate the offer of the loaner, however, several items have to be replaced either from being stolen or being subjected to the New Mexico weather for 16 yrs. I think I'll fix the smaller things first then save up for the big purchases.

On a different note, I hope you folks don't mind, but I'ld like to call on you guys for your good ideas and advise as well as using you as the substitute yellow pages for the area. On the same token, if I can be a set of extra hands for anybody in the area, please let me know.

I wouldn't spend to much time on small engine parts as you should be able to find a running complete motor. The parts you get on the running motor may be better than what you have now.

Mike B

Stewart,

I have a bunch of stuff here that's part of the collection of giveaways people leave here for other 'Bolters. You should stop by and check out the stash to see if there's anything here you need/want.

Even a mostly complete 261 with a 420 still attached to it ... it may have a cracked block, but if there's anything on it you can use, it's all yours.

That's true. However, my small parts will have to be stuff like window cranks, floor boards (some nice kind soul got into it to remove my wiper motor and left my cowl vent open; let in all rain, snow, dirt; ruined my mat and padding) and working on brakes, brake lines, the bed and that sort of thing. Then i can start saving for the engine. A friend of mine says that he knows somebody wil some engines so who knows. And the one in Ohio sort of sounded like the guy in NY wanted it. At any rate thanks for the input Mike, and PLEASE keep them coming. I really do appreciate all the help Ican get.
Stewart

OK, John, you've got my interest piqued(?). Where's "here", who'll be there and what is a good time for whom ever? Do I need to bring money, picture of pickup to show what I need or Just a smile, warm handshake and dressed for the occasion? Please let me know and thank you.
Stewart

Sent you a PM. Don't bring money, just a smile. Wear boots and bring gloves

Hope he knows of Christmas tree planting and stump removal. I will bring the 6pack if you guys let me know when you are to meet.

Don't let too many cats out of the bag, 'Bone