66 engine swap

[nc66]

I've got a 66 cruiser with a bad engine and my question is about putting a 230 in place of the 283. It just doesn't look like there is enough room without moving the radiator forward. Did the engine get moved back or was there a different radiator?

[r1lark]

quote:Originally posted by nc66

I've got a 66 cruiser with a bad engine and my question is about putting a 230 in place of the 283. It just doesn't look like there is enough room without moving the radiator forward. Did the engine get moved back or was there a different radiator?

IIRC, the radiator was actually moved forward to make room for the longer six cylinder, by using a different panel behind the grille (the panel that the hood latch bolts to).

Do you have a parts book? If so, you should be able to verify this. If not, let me know and I can check mine.

Where are you located?

Paul

Visit The Studebaker Skytop Registry website at: http://hometown.aol.com/r1skytop/myhomepage/index.html

[nc66]

what's happening Paul it's Mike Teague here. you got a 65chassis manual?

[8E45E]

[quote]Originally posted by nc66

what's happening Paul it's Mike Teague here. you got a 65chassis manual?

Indeed, the radiator does sit a few inches farther forward in a 6 than it does on the V8's. You will have to located a rad saddle and the sheet metal spacer from a '65-6 6-cylinder to make it fit.

Craig.

[sbca96]

You will kill the value by putting a 6 into a V8 car. With the cost
of a running GM V8 at less then 500 bucks, just get another V8. If
you are in Southern California, I have a running 305 Chevy that you
can have for a couple hundred - you pick up! (I will throw in the 350
transmission for free!)

Tom

[Scott]

nc66, I'm selling my 66 Cruiser and it runs well and doesn't look too bad. I've got new fenders and front valance and other parts. It does need some floor work and a few other things things, but it's already a driver. I'm in MN. Since these pictures the wheels have all been repainted white, like the originals. I'm asking $2000 for everything. Maybe that would save you the trouble with yours. Plus mine has NOS kingpins installed and disc brakes.






I'm only selling it because I decided to get a older VW bug as a winter driver and something has to go to pay for it.

[imported_n/a]

I'd forget about switching to the inline six, and use a 305 like sbca suggested.

[sbca96]

If you are on a budget .. if you have some extra cash, and want to do
it "right" then I would rebuild the 283. Its a good engine, with a
few upgrades that the factory GM's didnt get. Or you can pick up a
350 engine locally. There are a LOT of options with the GM powered
65-66 models. I'd be tempted to drop in an LT1 or LS2 crate motor!

Tom