The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 51 216 to '54 235 Truck engine.

So, I took the 54 235 truck block & head to the machine shop for reconditioning. Also included the flywheel.

Question: Can I keep my 216 bellhousing, starter, transmission off my original 51 engine? I was reading that there may be a gear tooth difference and I may have to switch to a 12v starter if using the 235 flywheel. Or, can I just use the 216 flywheel, etc.

Another question. I also have the 54 transmission. Any better than the 51, or exact same style? How about a 57 overdrive unit? My dad gave me one that he had. I know will require a different rear/drive shaft, but I happen to have a 68 Nova 10 bolt as well.

Thanks
Chris

OK- - - -the 54 flywheel should have the same number of ring gear teeth as the 216. (139) Chevy didn't change to a 12 volt starter and a 168 tooth flywheel gear until mid-year 55. The bellhousing, clutch, and other parts will be a direct swap. Other than the rear housing, and possibly the output shaft, the transmissions should be the same. The SM-319 overdrive trans is essentially the same as both of your others internally, except for one extra hole in the main case. The Borg-Warner planetary overdrive bolts onto the back of the Chevy case. Your Nova rear axle might work, but it's likely to have a higher speed gear ratio than would be appropriate for an OD trans. An OD in an early pickup works best with a 3.50:1 or lower gear ratio. The Nova will most likely be a 3.08 or so, and you'd only be able to run OD on flat land or downhill.
Jerry