Hi, I have a 1938 DeSoto 228 Flathead six engine (T58-9651) that came with a 218 crank in my 38 Dodge humpback panel truck RC. We are rebuilding it, but would like to put a 230 crank in it (if we can find one). Will my block handle a 230 crank? I could use any info that I can get. i've got only one chance on this block. Thanks.

Sifua,

You need to call George Asche. He's a wizard with flathead MOPARS and should be able to help you with info and/or parts. He's a really nice guy and does nothing but work with older MOPARs. He's in western Pa and does not do computers. Call him at 1-814-354-2621 I think you'll be glad you did.

I installed a '56 230 crank from a '56 ply. in my '38 Dodge coupe along w/the rods & it worked fine. It had the short block which is 23" long, best I rem.

Your DeSoto has the long block engine and the 230 crank won't fit.

To check on this just measure the head or the block where the head goes on.

The small Plymouth/Dodge block is 23 1/4", the big DeSoto/Chrysler block is 25 1/4".

For your block there were many possible combinations from 201 cu in (Canadian prewar Plymouth) to 265 cu in (52-53-54 Chrysler Windsor).

Crankshaft stroke length available for your block are 4 1/16", 4 1/4, 4 1/2 and 4 3/4.

Common bore sizes are 3 3/8 and 3 7/16.

The same pistons will work with any crankshaft but you must have the connecting rods of the correct length to go with the crankshaft. In other words if you use a different crank you must use the matching rods.