The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Out of curiosity, if given these choices, what engine?

I bought a parts truck, a 5 window 1951 3100. It is rusty, crusty, and had critters living in the cab. I am probably going to plow a little money in it. End goal is a crusty but safe shop truck for in town.

So I have these engines available:
The 216 that came with it and 3 on tree
A 1957 235 truck motor w/ sm420
A 1956 236 car motor w/ p.g.
Or
A 256 v8 either 2 or 4 bl w/ powerglide (have the corvette engine or normal car version)

All engine need a rebuild.

Btw, first real post. Just wondering out loud.

welcome to the site! First off, let me say, it is your truck, and ultimately, do what you want with it! However, some will come along and remind you it is only original once (that does not stop me from upgrading though).

I would be inclined to go with the 57 truck 235 and SM420 since it has a pressurized oil system and the SM420 is about as beefy as you would ever need.

The truck is pretty narrow up front and the 6 cyl will give you a bit more clearance on the side for steering etc than a V-8 would.

I would keep it original. It will cost less money and
you will get the work done faster. Jeffrey

I would go with one of the two 235s you have. I have a 4 speed SM420 and like it, you could decide to stay with the column shift.

Figure out your use, that will give you some good goals. A 235 and 420 will get you almost anywhere, with any load the truck was designed for, easy to change rear axle ration if need.

Ed

With your described end use change as little as needed to be safe. 235 truck motor gets it done for around town and you will be enjoying driving it in a short time. If you plan on hauling a load or trailer at 70-75 on the interstate many more upgrades than the motor are needed for safety and reliability

Welcome to the site

Thank you all for the input. I was thinking out load and could not get the thought of figuring out how to slip the 265 engine in (because its there).. looking for some voices of sanity and got it.

I am a long way away from that decision as the cancer needs to be repaired first.
Actually plan of attach andbudget needs to come first

Although, the idea of slipping in a 265 - v8 is probably much easier than any other v8, I have so many things to do before that point

Here is my thoughts, for what it is worth

A. I have read you do not have to move the steering box on a 283 if one uses a 265 head. So I am assuming that the 265 will slip in.

B. The 265 uses front engine mounts like a 235, different but front not side engine mounts. So I would need to manufactor a cross member.

C. Tranny bolts into truck clutch housing so no need to change drive train

The only question is will everything bolt together. I have not looked at things to closely as it is a crazy idea

I am very very long way from dealing with engine issues, but have the parts to put together a 265 with WCFB and 306 heads... basically a 265 corvette motor. ... IA crazy idea when I have access to a good 235. 30 cubes and more hp?!

Random thoughts as I slowly start digging into my 1950