The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop '83 250 instead of a '55 235, is it worth it?

One of my co-workers has an '83 250 that he's looking to get rid of cheap... apparently it has around 40k on it, ran strong, but he pulled it to install a 350. Is it worth pulling my '55 235 to swap it out for the 250? The 235 does smoke a little, has approximately 80k on it, and currently mates to a 3 speed column shift tranny. What would I gain/lose by installing the 250 and would it be a straight bolt in? Also, would it be better to grab the engine, build up either the 235 or the 250, and then use the other one in the truck while working on the other engine? Any input you guys have would be much appreciated... thanks!

Theold 235 had torque

I am 99.9% sure it is not a bolt in project. The 250 will be longer than what you have and bellhousing has a different bolt pattern. The 250 can take a little more rpm and parts may be a bit cheaper when rebuilding. If the 250 has a intake cast in to the head (one piece unit) I would avoid it. They are prone to heat cracks and leaks. You can replace it with a older head and intake and still have a good motor. If going to the trouble of swapping, go for a 292, cubic inches rule! It won't cost any more to swap it in as it will the 250, plus it will have way more torque and horsepower. Joe

It's a long way from a direct bolt in. Really it'll be the same amount of work involved as a small (or big) block v8 swap. Might as well go for the larger more powerful engine, unless you just really want to go with an inline.

If definitely want an inline in your '55 then go for the 250. I'd scrap the head, as it's certain to be the integral type (if it's original). Beef up the camming and intake and exhaust while you're at it and you won't be disappointed.

A healthy stock 250 will turn 3000 sustained (cruising) rpms easy. A 235 won't. With a little bottom end balance work 5000+ peak rpms is easily attainable.

-ftyler

also, the 235 bellhousing is a necissary part needed in the linkage of your column shift. u change to 250, your linkage will be screwed up pretty bad. i dont know if the 292 and the 235 share a common bell housing

Also, it would look pretty disgusting, don't you think ?

I would avoid the '83 250. With the integral head it doesn't have much performance upgradability, and it only makes about 150 hp, which a healthy 235 can match, as can a stock 261.
Let me put it this way:
I had a '67 stock 250 in good condition sitting in my garage that I got for free. I traded it for a 261 that slightly smokes but otherwise runs great, and I feel like I got a good deal.