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installing a 1996 chevy v/8 in a 1950 chevy 3100--- to the original tranny, Question can the original guages be hooked up ? Including the oil pressure. I am aware that it might be a semi overload on the drive train but I overhauled the tranny, have an optima battery a 6 volt alternator. Can the original ignition switch be used ? Thanks ,Bob

Yes.

Bob, isn't the 1996 engine computer controlled? If "yes", is that computer/sensor/ignition stuff compatible with a 6 volt ignition system?

It seems that connecting the oil pressure gauge would be the least of the challenges. That would simply require an adaptor available from Speedway Motors.

Presumably the purpose of the engine swap is to occasionally let that V8 power press you back in the seat as you merge onto the freeway or dish out a dose of tire smoke to a rice rocket. I understand those engines make about 400 ft/lbs of torque. How will you keep from exploding that 61 year old transmission and rear end?

Bob, isn't the 1996 engine computer controlled? If "yes", is that computer/sensor/ignition/starter stuff compatible with a 6 volt electric system?

An in-tank fuel pump will probably be required. How will you run that on 6 volts and still get the right pressure?

It seems that connecting the oil pressure gauge would be the least of the challenges. That would simply require an adaptor available from Speedway Motors.

Presumably the purpose of the engine swap is to occasionally let that V8 power press you back in the seat as you merge onto the freeway or dish out a dose of tire smoke to a rice rocket. I understand those engines make about 400 ft/lbs of torque. How will you keep from exploding that 61 year old transmission and rear end that were designed to handle only a fraction of the power you will have on tap?

Any engine can be fitted to any vehicle if you've got the determination but it seems there are a few details still to be worked out here. Engine swapping is great fun. Don't give up!

I'd think the first problem would be finding a 6 volt starter to turn a 350

Bill

I thought he ask about the gauges. But the other stuff needs to be looked at denpending on where he wants to go with the sensors and such.

Sounds like a whole lot of trouble about to happen.

There are too many variables in this idea to even make an educated guess about the odds of succeeding. It's just simpler to say "It isn't possible to do it that way" and leave things at that.
Jerry

Installing a 350 engine will require converting to a 12 volt system. Stock 1950 chevies have a closed driveline. The entire drive train will need updating. Do not forget the brakes. More power needs better a breaking system for a safe truck. As said above the gauges are the least of the issues for the change.

Unless you are converting to a carb and regular electronic distributor staying with 6v is really taking on a can of worms because EVERYTHING that makes the 96 engine work is 12v negative ground. That said, of course your can use your factory gauges even with 12v. The only gauge that is electric on a 50 is the gas gauge which can be reduced by an electronic voltage reducer like a Runtz. The V8 will keep the oil pressure gauge pegged out but no harm done. Amps are amps 6 or 12. Dorman and Imperial have fittings the temp bulb will screw into and one of these can be installed in the rear water runner on the drivers side so the sender tube will reach it and save one from buying the high dollar longer tube one offered by Carter. Have picture if needed.