The Stovebolt Site Forums The Parking Lot Big Bolts engine swap question. 1951 coe

I am really a novice on these trucks. I think I read enough to answer this question.
Will a V8 small block fit in a COE where the 6cyl is?
The frame rails look very tight.
I know folks have put them mid ship.
I want to retain the orig wheels and look but upgrade the engine, tranny, and most likely the rear axle.

Hy 51chris, welcome, I think that swap might be doable, but you may have issues with the floor. I would do some measureing, the steering box is right up at the front of the frame so exhaust shouldn't be an issue, but the height of the carb relative to the floor might be, good luck, and please keep us informed of what you find.

Chris: It is very tight,but another 235 C.I. all the way to and including 1962 will bolt in with some minor modifications and a shortened water pump you can buy out of any truck parts book. I bolted my 47 updraft intake,exhaust manifold, bell housing ,flywheel, and valve cover on a 62 235 C.I. It has over twice the oil pressure and insert bearings.

Thanks much chris, do you think a non carbed v8 will fit in the coe? otherwise I will go the 6 cyl route.

If you want a V8 your best bet would probably be to set the cab on a newer chasis,engine and drive line.I've seen COE cabs on modern rollback wreckers. But then your far from original, it all depends what your after.

I've seen this conversion a couple times on stock chassis, including one on ebay recently. Appears to have been done without floor modifications.

If anyone has pics that would be great.

I have seen a V-8 in an AD COE, since the V-8 is not as tallas a 6, it fit OK, even w/ air cleaner. However, a 261, 292, or GMC 302 will give increased performance w/ a stock appearing 6 cyl engine.