Inliners International Forums General Discussion Engines Ok, what's best option to replace cracked 235?

After causing a big ruckus w/my post about how i was considering replacing my 235 w/a 350 in my 52 chevy, I gots to know: What's the most common, yet cost-effective way to drop in another str8t 6, w/a bit more power, but not take 2 mechanics, 100 forum posts and alotta $$$ to get going? Not looking to make this a show truck w/Fenton headers...just getter done. Thanks boys.

If $$$ is more important than righteousness use the V thing. but don't tell us about it. A 261 will fit right in but may not be easy to find or cheap. A 250 may be cheap and easy to find but will take some work. A 4.2 might be had for relatively cheap, and would take considerable work but might kick the V things ass and get better milage. So many choices. It's not as much about money or performance as it is a belief system. The uncool factor. Beater

Some of the older trucks had the clutch and brake pedals mounted on the bellhousing. They are a bear to to but I think yours has them mounted to the frame. A 292 would be relatively easy to do, maybe a bit easier than a 350, if it's open drive shaft. New motor mounts and bellhousing . If not, the trans may have to be changed, as well as the rear end. You are in a set of transition years where things changed. First question is do you have an enclosed drive shaft?

yup, i do! - this is 3-on-tree, btw....

Find an used 235!

If you go to a V8 you'll have to change the front motor mounts and I think move the steering box. The early V bell housing will bolt to your trans and you can use the clutch linkage. A 235/261 will bolt right in. A 250-292 will be the same as a V but you wont have to move the steering box. This assumes that to put the 235 in your truck in the first place the radiator was moved forward. If the short water pump option was used it will have to be maintained for the 235/261. The new sixes will require the Radiator to be moved forward 1 1/2". If that was done to fit the 235 then a 270/302 GMC will bolt in with a front motor mount change. This is with no trans, drive line or rear end change. These old rear ends are really pretty tough, trannys not so strong. Patrick's makes an adapter kit to fit a Saganaw 4 speed to the closed drive line and also 3.55 gears for the rear. Going to open drive line is not too hard as many rear ends are easy fits. As was mentioned you are at a point where there are many options. Decide what you want your truck to be and we will do what we can to help if you stay INLINE. Beater

The one I helped with was used and abused by a then 16 yr. old boy who can destroy a anvil with a kleenex. He never broke the original drive train with the stock 250".However we later changed to a s-10 5 speed and nova rearend and found he could destroy that trans. at will. However if you can find a 235"-261" that would be easier. BG HANK hang around here too long and we will warp your mind, till you start thinking like we do. Stick with us!!! 1 OL REDNECK