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#57901 03/18/2006 5:57 PM | Joined: Feb 2004 Posts: 63 Member | | Member Joined: Feb 2004 Posts: 63 | Hello Everyone, I just had a late 70S Nova offered to me for a good price.It has a 250 with auto and runs like new.I am thinking about putting the compleate drive train in my 53.I need some details,It looks like I could buy the v8 adapter crossmember from CD and the automatic crossmember to get it mounted to frame,is this correct? One thing that I am concernd with is the temp gage I want the stock one can it work in the 250(sending unit)?Also can I use the stock radiator? Thanks for any input, Aaron  | | |
#57902 03/19/2006 3:11 AM | Joined: Apr 2002 Posts: 1,571 Shop Shark | | Shop Shark Joined: Apr 2002 Posts: 1,571 | Radiator should be fine (if it's ok now). You'll probably need an adapter of some sort to install the capillary tube sender for the temp gauge into the 250's head. If that 250 has the integrated intake/manifold system, find a 250 in a junkyard with the earlier head and accessories - the integrated thing is a disaster that probably already happened. | | |
#57903 03/19/2006 3:59 PM | Joined: Jan 2001 Posts: 662 Shop Shark | | Shop Shark Joined: Jan 2001 Posts: 662 | A,
Correct, the crossmembers work fine with the 250. I agree with GMCpanel that adapting the sending unit won't be hard. If it's running fine, I wouldn't be in a hurry to lose the integral head if it has one. There are always a few cherries even in a lemon design. Swapping the head later is easy if need be.
My stock rad works just fine with an electric pusher fan in front. I run 180-185 consistently and have only seen 190-195 tops. I use a 4lb cap. | | |
#57904 03/22/2006 2:05 AM | Joined: Feb 2004 Posts: 63 Member | | Member Joined: Feb 2004 Posts: 63 | Thanks for the reply guys, I think this may be the best way for me to go,it will surley be the most cost effective. Thanks again,Aaron | | |
#57905 03/27/2006 12:55 AM | Joined: Mar 2006 Posts: 262 Shop Shark | | Shop Shark Joined: Mar 2006 Posts: 262 | I ran a 250 in my last '49 and it worked great. I used the crossmembers you mentioned along with the stock radiator and heat gauge, although I had to use an adapter to get the bourbon tube to fit in the 250 head. The only problem was the 4.11 rear end. I was running about 3000 rpm at 50 mph. I put in a 2.73 rear end and it dropped to about 1800 rpm at 65 mph! Out on the highway I had plenty of power and speed to keep up with most of the V8 guys. Not only that, but it looks stock! I used the original 3 speed column shifter for my TH 350 tranny. Took a little rigging, but it worked. I think you'll like this set-up.
My truck: She may not be the prettiest girl at the dance, but she's all mine!
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