Another newbie question, are their certain AD engines that are better than others? Basically, is the 216 a reliable engine still, or are there problems to watch out for. Like in this post: http://springfield.craigslist.org/cto/1994812425.html
Sandy, I have an original 216 in a 47', they started building them in 1939 and went to 1955. It is only 85 HP, but I enjoy it very much. It is a very simplistic mechanical engine. Meaning even I can figure things out on it, with the help of the folks on here. With a build run that long I guess it did its job, even through the war years. I also have a 53' with a 235, slightly modified to around 155HP, it is a whole different beast. Sounds bad ass and is very peppy...most people think I have a 350 in it. It is also a favorite and simple engine. Overall I think most people like the 235 better if they have to change engines as it just drops right into your engine bay. Rebuilding a 216 is not the easiest I'm told. So run your 216 till it drops and have a 235 on standby. Its the rearend gearing that is a source of constant debate. Flashlight
2 fer~ Flashlight~ I am so envious of the two, count 'em, TWO AD trucks to choose from. (I like the GMC fenders on the one truck you have!)
Engine ~ Bangers Well ; The Inline 6 cylinder engine in any size or trim , will always be a torquey , peppy fun to run engine that's not overly fuel efficient . 216 C.I.D. engines are 1930's tech , they have a dipper / spray lubrication to the connecting rod bearings so they won't last long if run at high RPM's . Both it and the 235 / 261 variants are *very* long stroke engines so running them over 3,200 RPM's for extended periods , say on the freeway , will soon result in a catastrophic failure . That being said , there are still many tens of thousands of 216's running sweetly having never been rebuilt but also carefully operated within their design parameters ~ therin lies the rub and it goes like this : ' hey Nate ! check out the cool '74 Chevy I scored for $1,500 ! ' ~ my reply " yes , have fun with it but remember to not exceed 50 MPH no matter what , that old 216 can't take it " . A day or so later : ' Nate , you're crazy ~ this thing goes 75 <MPH with only 1/4 throttle ! ' . Two weeks later ' Nate , I had the junk that piece of shyte Chevy - it blew up on me ' . No one ever listens and it's always the car's fault . Although these are the most popular cars & trucks in the entire world , GM built them as cheap , entry level vehicles ~ ignore / forget / dismiss this at your peril . Or , learn how to tune it up your ownself and take care of it , never overspeed the engine and you'll love it above all others and it'll outlast any Brand 'F' junk ever made . (looks better too) That's my story and it's well proven over the years ~my battered but proud '49 Chevy 3100 isn't restored nor a ' hobby truck ' ~ it's a hard working , good looking rig that I love and trust , anywhere , anytime .
216 versus the 235 CI full pounder. Hi Sandy and welcome back to this great forum. About what discission to make when buying a truck , weather it should have the 216 engine or 235 depends also a bit on what the purpose in dayly use it is gona have ! As a farmer i bought mine with a 216 engine and decided at once i had tried the engine capacity that i had to swap it out for a full pounder 235 CI. That 216 engine whas not strong anough for farming and forrestry purpose. Chances for having a longer lasting engine use is bigger because the 235 engine have hydraulic lifters and better engine oil pressure on the pistons. If you decide to buy one i`ll recommend you to look after a truck with the standard Munchie 4 gear floor setup and not the 3 on the colum, if posseble a truck from 1953 or 54.They have a wider gearing range that gives a bit better engine performence. Elsewhere differences are not that much. Nice talking to you, Martinius. You could make a phonecall to Patrick Dykes and ask him about some advice before you buy a truck fore an acceptable price ? Attaching his article 216 versus 235 engine swapping. http://www.patricksantiquecars.com/articles.html
