Whet to do

[mapman]

since I have an extra R1 and powerflite transmission I have been trying to figure out what to put it in. I have a '59 lark 2dr that might work. Will a regular lark V8 radiator keep it cool? I also have a '54 half ton that would be fun with it. The engine and trans is out of my '51 commander starlite and that is right next to the R1. I never thought I would have such a dilemma. I guess I'll just leave on the garage floor and drool on it for now.
Rob

[StudeRich]

It should be pretty much a bolt-in in the '59 Lark if you have some V8 Front Engine Mount Brackets.
The Radiator will not work or fit as good as a V8 one since it is a Six Cylinder.

You will need a water Manifold for a Lark, you could trade the Avanti one for it, if it is a "R" engine, not a JT Hawk/Lark.

Then you may want to STOP the Car, so Brakes and the Front Springs will need to be addressed.

I am sure you know the Starlight Coupes are not Starlites, and the Floor Shift Automatics are Powershifts.

The Truck will require a lot of Truck specific parts to work, including driveshaft changes.

[mapman]

I have the water manifold. Would the damper also need to be changed or the water pump pully? I have some V8 radiators out of some 62-63 cars. I also have the mount brackets (lots of parts cars). The rear end would need to be upgraded too. I have a 44 TT with about 4.11s in a 1/2 ton champ. Is the track on that too wide or can I just move the spring mounts?
I have a complete front suspension and drum brakes from a 63 V8 lark but the rearend is a TT 27 with 3.07s.
I know most of this is going to require some work and modification.
I also need to forget about all those old mopar terms (powerflite).
I should leave the 51 alone and put it back together. It is too nice in original restored condition.
My wife thinks the '59s are cute anyway.
Rob

[Warren Webb]

The truck rear axle assembly is wider than one used in the cars. I have both & can measure it tomorrow if you want.

[mapman]

Thanks but I am just trying to think through this idea. I would have go out and make all the measurements too. It would sure be a fun project if it ever gets off the ground.
Rob

[swvalcon]

I can save you the trouble and just come take it off your hands so problem solved.

[rockinhawk]

If the wife likes it... I would definately go with the Lark. I have aquired a fondness for the early Larks since my grandson fell in love with a 60 2dr Ht that I was going to junk out.
It's sitting in my yard right now with a freshly rebuilt engine in it.

[4961Studebaker]

I was in a bit of the same delema as you. Ultimately it came down to the Lark being able to carry more people to events/cruises. If you have kids or grand kids, you'll find the truck a bit confining.

Since the wife likes the Lark, it seems Lark first then the truck.