Could really use some help. I'm doing a frame up build per my "Budget Build" thread and have the frame ready to paint but need to know this first. How do I mount a '61 235 into a '50 3100 chassis? Here's the frame: I removed the original trans x-member. I know this 235 has front, side and bellhousing mounts. I'd like to use the front and rear mounts but it doesn't seem like that stock rear x-member will work. Who's done this and can tell me how to do it?
You could use the front saddle mount and the bellhousing side mounts and that would be it. You use a crossmember and tranny mount but not necessary.
The front saddle mounts are what, exactly? Not the same as the 216 mount is it? The bellhousing side mounts on that later bellhousing mount to that stock crossmember?
The front would be the same as the 216. You would use the same crossmember that came with the truck for the bellhousing mounts. Looks like the crossmember in your picture is bent to me.
OK I thought the front mounts were towards the side of the later 235, not in the middle like the 216. That member is bent. It will have to be massaged before finishing. Perhaps I am seeing it wrong in my minds eye - doesn't seem like there's enough clearance for the bellhousing and trans to sit atop that x-member.
I put a 54 235 bolted to the original 3 speed in my truck back when i got it like 18 years ago. It used all the exact same mounts as the 216. Not sure if the later 235 youve got is different... you will obviously have to modify the tranny mount for the t5.
When I get home tonight I could take some pictures. I just removed a 235 out of a 50 3100 truck the 235 was a 57 year model and I beleve thay are the same.
You can see there is a bracket behind the timing cover for the front mount. I am unable to find the bellhousing but the mounts will set on top of crossmember between bellhousing and crossmember.
this has been covered time and time again. There's plenty of info on the net. It's a easy swap Here's a good site http://www.stovebolt.com/techtips/engine_swap_216.htm
Well it is and it isn't. I'd say about 75% of all info regarding anything on the internet is of the "I hear it works, but am not sure/I think I remember maybe seeing it done like that maybe/If it's this version of whatever and not that version then it should work but I don't really know." And this is in the rare instance where complete sentences (accompanied by actual punctuation) are used. The other 25% is "I have done it, know how it is done, and here's how to do it." Nothing wrong with having a nice, clear and concise thread on the matter with pictures and links...redundant or not.
Looks like its going to take some heat. That crossmember is some tuff stuff. If you need that front bracket behind the timing cover PM me I can ship it out to you.
Hey Salt. I have the original bracket. It 'looks' the same. Do you know if they are? If not we'll have to deal on your bracket.
You can drill your '61 front motor plate and mount it to the stock hole locations (dimensions and a template can be found on Stovebolt.com under Tech Tips), You can use a '48 - '53 bell housing that should mount directly to your cross member. Looks like your cross member is a little wonky though, it will have to be straightened or replaced. The bell housing will bolt to the back of your '61 235. No tranny X-member will be needed.
Let me know if you need the front mount parts and I have a cross member in a 48 frame I could cut out for you also.
OK. I'm going to torch it tomorrow and see if I can get it bent back well. If not, I'll bolt in yours. Where are you located?
I am going to try and straighten it first. Put the frame on the ground, put a small torch to it for awhile and then hammer it.
Speaking of such things, where do people buy tube steel that's right for cross member and various purposes? I want to add a rear shock bar and some gas tank cross members.
Ok I'm putting a 54 235 in 48 GMC 1/2 ton pickup with a adapter plate and 2004r trans. Which means I lose the motor mounts at the bell housing. The motor has threaded bosses on the sides that the factory used for mounts in sedans with powerglides. Here's what I did for mounts. The mounts I made bolt in rather than welded in case I ever want to change to a V8. I'm using the front mount a long with the two side mounts made from a universal Chevy V8 set and a new cross member for the rear of the trans. If you need tubing or any type metal try Speedymetals.com they sell any type or size metal you need. Mel
Do you lose the bell housing mount because of the adapter for the 2004r? Thanks for the link. I have a local supplier here but I'm wondering, too, what "kind" of steel or tubing is the same or better than what the frame is made out of? What thickness of tubing should I be using to meet or exceed the strength of the frame?
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