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I have located a small block Chevy (1965 283) to replace the 216 in my 1949 4100. Does anyone have any experience with this swap. What am I in for regarding the motor mounts, cross member, bell housing, or radiator clearance. Any advice welcome. The brakes have already been completely rebuilt.

Nice move covering the brakes first!

I have seen several small blocks installed in big bolts and in most ways its not much different than putting one in a pickup.

Do you intend to leave the existing transmission in place? If so you need a V-8 type bellhousing from a '55 to '67 V-8 truck, or '63 to '67 six. The mounts on the bellhousing are different than your '49 and you'll either need to make adapters or swap to a '54 or '55 1st 4100 crossmember.

You'll have exhaust manifold/steering interfence.

The common V-8 swap crossmember available from most the venders is probably the easiest way to mount the front of the motor.

The radiator will be further from the fan than on a stock six. You may need to deal with that if it gets too hot. If not, ignore it.

One other thing to be aware of is that your '65 motor should have early heads and does not have the front mounting holes for the alternator and other accessories.

Thanks for the info. I will be looking for the appropriate bell housing. I've heard that old Camaro headers will clear the steering box. Have you run across any other solutions.

Happy Holidays!

A left side '55 V-8 exhaust manifold is supposed to clear the steering box and has the pad to mount your generator or alternator on. A little restrictive,but for a truck that won't matter.
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