The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot Big Bolts Engine swap

I have a 1933 1-1/2 ton truck that used to belong to my grandfather. I am just getting started on the restoration. I want to keep the truck original looking, but want to update the drivetrain. I would like to swap the 207 for a 235 with a synchronized tranny and open driveshaft. Has anyone ever done a swap like this?

Thanks

excellent your keeping a family heirloom. Hopefully some of the more experienced bolters will be along with advice on the changes.

there may be a way to keep the closed type drive shaft and still get newer moter and trany
my 39 parts truck has closed drive line with old non syncro trany but it has a cracked 235 bolted in.
also and the newer muncie 420 was avilible in some ('torq tube' pickup trucks Im thinking it was in the mid 50s )

I replaced the old non Synchro Transmission on my 46 3/4 Ton Panel with an SM420. I needed a different bell housing to make the link to the 235. My guess is that if you find a later model 235 driveline it should be fairly easy. The problem you will most likely run into will be the mounting of the clutch and brake pedals.

I would suggest finding an engine, bell housing and SM 420 driveline and take the pedal system as well. I think you can use your original pedals and the newer mounting system to keep the orignal look. You also need to have the front drive shaft shortened. The SM420 is much larger than the stock Trans.

Thanks for the information everyone. I live in Colorado - out in farm country, so AD trucks are readily available for parts. I think it's a requirement that every farmer has to have at least one 47-54 truck setting out in the yard. I'll make sure I check on the pedals - I didn't even think of problems there.

I would also suggest measuring the length and other dimensions of the engine and drive train to confirm what will and will not line up. The length of the 235 and what you have now will probably be different. The length of the water pump is a routine issue to be dealt with, as are the locations of motor mounts..

I believe one of the vendors, maybe jim carters, is offering a modified bell housing for this swap. i remeber researching the same thing for my 46 3/4
Phil

I tracked down a 1950 1 1/2 ton Chevy truck, with a newer, rebuilt inserted engine. I measure the frame widths and spring hangers on my 33 and this 50, and they are nearly identical. I am planning on swapping out the entire drivetrain in my 33. Best of all, the 50 parts truck only cost me a couple of cases of beer.

Congratulations, sounds like a great score!

Phil, is right about the bell housing, Jim Carter sells them and they work fine. That is what I used.

How about a picture!