The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Blew my engine today

Blew it up all over the highway. I have a 1946 Chevy Stylemaster Sedan with a 216 engine. I was driving down the highway at about 65MPH and it exploded. What are my options as far as replacements go. Should I get another 216, or move to a 235 or maybe even a 302? I am looking for the cheapest easiest solution to get it back on the road again. What's your thoughts?

DG

1st choice: cheapest and easiest: probably buying a 216 (bolt right in)

2nd choice: high pressure 235 (1954 or later)

3rd choice: 261

4th and higher choices: GMC 228, 248, 270, 302 (in that order, based on relative costs).

My thoughts are, running a 216 at 65mph isn't cool, especially for long periods of time. I would suggest, if you want a highway cruiser that you change over to a full oiler 235 engine with an upgraded tranny and differential. (or keep a spare 216 handy)

The Interstate system was designed and built AFTER 1953 most cars and trucks prior to 1953 were driven on state roads at 50MPH or less.

Man that is rough. Well I guess if you get a good solid engine in there, things should be a lot better. A full pressure 235 would give you a boost in power. However, you may not want to be cruising at 65 mph if you have a 4.11 rearend.

DG
That is rough. I have a 216 in my 53 that I have the same fear. It is ok on the road but I don't typically run it over 55

I just bought a 235 full pressure engine to rebuild so I can have a highway cruiser. I will likely keep my 216 as it is the original

I think a 235 or 261 is the way to go

Rich

"I am looking for the cheapest easiest solution to get it back on the road again. What's your thoughts?

I'd look for a running high-pressure 235.

DG

PS
Good luck
Rich

DG, while I think the GMC engines were a very superior engine, I would not recommend trying to put one in a passenger is not a quick or cheap ordeal. The engine is 1 1/2" longer and the oil pan will not clear your tie rods, etc. It has been done, but it wasn't easy. Take the advice of Chevy guys and put a Chevy in that bolts right in.

I have a 235 out of a 1957 w/ about 12k mi on it,and a 1959 235
with 80k on it both are complete engines. Starter,generator,flywheel,clutch and bellhousing. if you need help let me know.

mr. giant i see your not that far from me.

I mis-posted in another thread by accident... sorry,


I bought a nice 235 yesterday, all rebuilt, new carb, fuel pump, and water pump. Stainless steel valves and so on. Full pressure 235 not an oil dipper. I will post some pictures tonight or tomorrow. If anyone could tell me what will need to be swapped or replaced to get this thing to fit I would greatly appreciate it. In addition the gentlemen who sold me the engine gave me a practically new clutch to go along with it, and a flywheel.

DG

if it is a 55 2nd to 62 235 you should get a water pump relocation plate so the old style water pump can be used.

DG, have you considered converting the rear end ratio to 3.55? I just did that in my '36 pickup and it drops the engine revs about 17%

So nice to see so many replies saying keep the six. Glad no one suggested a SBC!

I always suggest an SBC.

"Southern Blonde (or Brunette) Chick"...

Cool deal on finding and obtaining a full pressure 235.