Projects 216 to 235 swap

I have a 1950 Chevy convertible all original with stock 216, 3spd, 6 volt, and 3.55 rear closed torque tube. I have a line on a 53 Chevy 235 with powerglide and 12 volt. I’m wondering if this swap is going to be worth my time and energy. At the end of the day if I do the swap it would still be a closed driveline. Would be nice to have a automatic trans Though.
Any input or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

 

Lots to consider when significant changes are done. I have owned a couple, and a rebuilt 235 will take a few amount of abuse. Unless you find a sweet (complete) closed shaft Power Glide set-up, I'd bolt the 235 in and keep driving.

 

Here's some info from a old Patrick's catalog...might help.

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Do the engine swap, keep the 3 speed


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^^^^^^^ Ditto

I swapped a 1961 235" into my '37 Chevy coupe after I blew the babbited bearings on the 216 five hundred miles from home on a tour. That was back around 1985 and I drove the car 2k-4k miles every year for 34+ years with an engine with more horsepower and one that was more dependable. Do the swap- you won't regret it.

 

I have a '37 Chevy Coupe I bought last Spring. The prior owner liked to tour with the car and installed, what else, a '53 235 from a Powerglide car. He chose that model for two specific reasons, the primary being the full pressure lube/insert bearings and secondarily, the ;53 was the last to use the early style valve cover. The car was a prize winning restoration and he wanted to maintain the appearance of the OEM 216.

Though the engine runs very well, I am pulling it in favor of a warmed up 250 and open drive line. In any case, you will enjoy the improvement in performance and durability.

Ray

 

216s are good engines, 235s are great engines.
Power glides are great in a drag car

 

Being the Resident Contrarian , it is my duty to express the opinion that Powerglides, even the old cast iron PG, are fine for street cruisers. The OP's '50 Convertible will be plenty enjoyable with a transplanted '53 235/iron PG. The '53 parts car will provide all the needed bits and pieces to make it a bolt-in proposition.

Ray

 

Never be ashamed of a contrary well defined opinion
100% unanimity is un-American

 

swap 235 forget the powerglide. unless its aluminum then yes and do a open driveline.