looking to swap out the engine in my 57 GMC 150. To go with the chevy bolt pattern bell housing, is it the same bell as the cast iron one used up to 72 in man trans pickups? Or is this the one I need? Not sure what engine I want to use yet but the bell will be a good starting point. More than likely I want np 5sp, but still in the "planning stage". I want to get engine and tranny set up before reinstalling the cab. I'm sure I'll have lots more questions but that will help alot for now. Thanks in advance.
The V-8 bellhousing used in a 55-59 Chevy truck would be the one to look for. 63-66 truck V-8 and 6 cylinder bellhousings would work as well. 60-62 used a hydraulic clutch and are different. However, later bellhousings, like the 72 you mentioned have a larger center hole to accept the larger bearing retainer (5 1/8") on the newer transmissions. You would want to obtain the bellhousing that matches the transmission you are planning to use. Fred
1956 3100 Pickup/Red/350/3sp OD/PS/Disc Brakes 1957 Bel Air Sport Coupe/Red/355/TH350/PS/Disc Brakes 2017 Silverado LT Single Cab SB/Black/5.3/6 Speed Trans 1947 Willys CJ2A w/F-Head engine
next swap question , if I swap to a newer engine and trans combo with side mount engine and tail shaft tranny mount, does the factory trans bell housing crossmember stay in place or does it need to be removed for clearance?
Hy jmlloar, you should be able to accomplish your swap without having to do anything to the engine rear mount crossmember, that crossmember does much more than providing a mounting point for the rear of the engine. Most transmissions mounted to the iron bellhousing do not require a support of their own. You can use the factory bellhousing mounting system together with the after market side engine mounts, hope that helps.
That crossmember in the firewall area also reinforces the rear spring hangers. If you choose to modify or remove it, fabricate a dropped-center replacement crossmember out of square steel tubing for extra clearance for an automatic trans. Don't remove it entirely. There are universal-fit rear transmission crossmembers you can use to support the back of the trans if necessary.
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Ok, engine in place, 2002 5.3 with 65 cast iron bell, bolted to factory mounts and tranny Lots of clearance with everything except right pickup manifold wont clear frame or trans crossmember. going to add block hugger headers. Still debating on what engine mounts I am going to use. Fuel lines on engine bolted back to original bell bolt and line up perfectly with curve of bell and SM420 looks like it was made for it. lots of room around oil pan, sump is behind steering. Next step is to test fit cab with engine bolted in.
