No guys, not the question that 1st popped into ur minds. I don't wanna marry ya'll. The question I want to ask is this. Shud I rebuild the stock 216 in my '51 or throw a big block in it? As of now the guy Ibought the truck from said the 216 will run with a lil TLC. As Ibuild the truck I'm gonna put a 250 out of a '74 in the truck so it can b moved outta the way as needed... Just want some input on what ya'll think. Price is gonna play quite a bit in my decision so I'll b checkin prices as ya'll r helpin.. Thanks in advance, folks Jim Tatman
RE: I'm gonna pop the question to u Jim, if cost is a concern you sure shouldn't consider a big block. I think your easiest(cheapest) solution is using a 235, 58 or newer. It is an all bearing, no shims type engine and can be found for nothing or next to nothing. All the V8 conversion guys are chucking them in the iron pile and alot of them are good or good to rebuild. I don't know when they changed rear mount style on the 216/235 engine but the bellhousing switch would cure that and just drilling the front mount plate to 216 pattern would make this a easy weekend swap. Absolutely nothing wrong with a 216 if treated right but in the days of 70 mph traffic they are out of they're range unless shallower gearing is installed and that is a bit pricey.
RE: I'm gonna pop the question to u Hi Jim, Like Evan said, plus the 250 swap is NOT a quick thing to do. I done it and am content BUT new rear, tranny plus engine and tranny crossmenbers, etc. Not a quick job. BUT it is set up fer a 4.3 V-6 or 283-350 V-8 later. But I wont be doing that. Just my thoughts, rick
