Who knows Desoto staight six???

My cousin just bought a 1951 Desoto with a straight six. The guy told him its a 251ci. The parts mag we have been looking at from Kanter auto doesnt show a 251ci in a straight six they show a 241, 236, and a 228ci from 1937 to 1954. Across the top of the head it says spitfire in raised letters. Anyone have a clue. We are trying to find parts for the motor but need to know how big first.

 

251 ci is correct. You can continue to verify with the engine code, found at the top-front-side of the block just below the deck.

 

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If you measure the length of the head, it should be 25". These motors were also used in Chrylers. The Dodge/Plymouth 218 and 230 motors have 23" heads. There are speed parts available for the bigger motors but are rare compared to the Dodge/Plymouth 218/230 motors. Stuff for the smaller motors is pretty common.
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I just looked at the Kanter catalog online in PDF and on page 47 under engine parts, DeSoto, it shows '37-'54, 228, 236, 241, 251, 265

 

I will have to get the numbers and post to see if we can find out. Page 48 on the Kanter catalog also shows a 241ci as a V8 in 55-57 also.

 

for parts sources other than Kanter, look up www.vintagepowerwagons.com or www.oldmoparts.com

 

Yea man...Kanter is expensive. I got all my engine parts for Vintage Power Wagons or www.oldmopar.com

 

These guys might have something for you too.

http://www.egge.com/