The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Engine swap 235 and 261

I currently have a 56 that I am pretty sure came originally w a 235. It now has a non-running 283 in it. I am looking to swap a running 261 out of a 59 chevy into my 56. It looks like they added some ears onto the frame to accommodate the 283. They both have 4 speed transmissions. Any advice on doing this swap is greatly appreciated. I have removed an engine from a 35 chevy before, but that is the only experience I have in this kind of thing.

I recommend you get the numbers off your transmission and rear diff and make sure what you've got. That will help you find out if the transmission you have will match your 261, including the flywheel and starter. Another question is what happened to your stock motor mounts when that 283 was installed? Patricks Antique Trucks is a good slource of information for engine swaps using a 261...and they have cool parts. Call them at 520-836-1117. FInd out what your tranny & rear diff are before you call.

Get the proper motor mounts and it bill bolt in.The v8 mount may look like ears but they should unbolt if they are the factory type. The 6 cyl mounts are basically a long bolt and some rubber disks.

AD - I am planning on replacing both the motor and transmission, so matching them up is not an issue. Thanks for the tip on Patricks. I got the 56 w the v8 in it, and have no idea what happened to the original mounts.

Tommy - the v8 mounts are bolted in, so should be no problem taking them off. And the 261 is currently in a 59 apache and has the long bolts and rubber discs, so it sounds like I am in business.

Thanks guys for the advice.