The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop swapping 216 to ??

Hey Everyone,

New here, and I wanted to get some advice about a swap I'm considering. My flywheel got the teeth eaten up by an incorrect starter, and I got a new flywheel on ebay. So I took out what I thought was a 235 / powerglide from my 1952 chevy styleline, and while putting new gaskets on it I realized it was a 216 - as per the "GM 216" stamp viewable with the oil pan off. I really don't wanna put this 216 back in, So I'm looking for something else. I have a guy with a $200 1962 235 here, not sure if it will mount correctly, and I want to eventually put an a/c compressor on the car. I'm also considering a small v8, but not sure what will bolt up to my powerglide and mount to the car correctly. Any ideas?

go for the 235, its not hard to swap and is cooler than a v8. http://www.stovebolt.com/techtips/engine_swap_216.htm

1952-54 uses the same side mounts. 1955-57 does not have the center side mount provision. 1958-62 went back to side mounts but the mounting pattern is different so some adapting would be necessary with those engines.
I question the "216" stamp you mention. I have never seen the engine size cast in any 216 or 235. I would check casting numbers.

Like it has been said so many times before. Small block V8s are like belly buttons. Everyone has one! Keep the six.

Do some casting number checking before you decide what engine you've got there. If it does happen to be a splash-oiler 235 with hydraulic lifters, I want it for a restoration I'm doing! The 216 will have a smaller bore and stroke, but you'll need to pull the cylinder head to get a bore/stroke measurement. That's the definitive way to tell, though!
Jerry