Hi all! I am about to rebuild my 1953 3100. On this website it says it should have a 216, but mine has a 235. I am trying to keep this as original as possible, and am looking to rebuild the 235. My question is, when I look for engine rebuild kits around the web, it says from 47-53 235's, or 54-++ 235's. What rebuild kit do I need? Also, do I need bobbit bearings? Sorry to be such a newb, but I am real good with computers, but love to turn a wrench (even tho the wrench is smarter than I am) Thanks for any help, and I think this is real cool that guys like us have a place to "Hang" for our cool ole' trucks.
Glad to have you aboard! I think you'll have fun on this site! Don't worry about being a newbie. I've been there, done that, and got grease on the t-shirt! For the purist, it's true. If you truck is a half ton, it ought to have a 216. If you've got a 235, you're a lucky man. They are light-years better motors (I can't believe I'm saying this after arguing with Nate over that point in the past). BTW, when He speaks, listen to Him! You need to figure out what year 235 you've got. Find a casting # on the block and/or serial # and search the many sites to figure out what year it is. Or better yet, post it here and watch the contest to see who will be the first to tell you what year it is. The early 235's are a cut above the 216's, but if you have a late model (57-62) full pressured one, you're in like Flint. The first thing I ever learned on this forum is very basic and so true, and remember this always..."you are the one paying the bills, so YOU rebuild YOUR truck the way YOU want to". We are here to help, not to tell you what you should do.
Hi and welcome, Its a pretty common change out, the 216 to the 235. There was a poured babbit 235 available for the bigger trucks thats like the 216. I would guess that you have 54 and newer 235, with inserts. If the valve cover has four bolts than its the later 235. Chris
