350ci & stock steering ?

[Tod59]

Hey guys, in the garage now with my 59 3100.
Question:
If I install a 1973 350 engine with a 700r4 tranny, can I still use my original steering box and column? My new auto shifter will be on the floor. But, I'm worried about having room for my original non power steering against the rams horn manifolds I want to use.
I'm on a TIGHT budget here, so no power steering upgrades, no new front suspension upgrades or used Camaro front clips. Just want to know if I can use original steering box and column.
Oh yes, I'm going to use 2 inch rams horn manifolds too.
Thanks
Tod59

[mr48chev]

59 trucks came with 283 V8 engines that have the exact same outside dimensions as the 350. That means you are worrying about something that isn't an issue.

The only issue is that you will most likely have to remove or modify the crossmember that the bellhousing bolted to as it will interfere with the trans and bellhousing if you run the automatic.

Hopefully at least one TF guy will show some photos of his/her installation with a similar setup with a bit more advice on the swap. When I had my 57 Panel with the 327 I ran the stock 57 V8 bellhousing and stock 3 speed so clearance wasn't an issue.

[Tod59]

Thanks.

[Wrenchbender Ret]

Like Mr Chev says, the biggest problem will be removeing the crossmember that the bell housing rides on & installing one in the rear part of the trans. I take it you are replaceing a 6 cyl. There are no problem with steering gear clearance. You will need a front engine mount kit & throttle kit. The swap is much easier with a manual trans.

[67 chevelle]

you will require a crossmember , and the driveshaft shortened , probably a yoke also

[Tod59]

Thanks to all that responded!

[Apachemike]

It is the exact setup in my truck now 59 3100 350/700r4. Had original steering box and column but recently installed ps. Auto on the floor. PM me if you need anything or pics and I'll do what I can for you

[mr48chev]

The simple way would be to get the tube crossembers that mount the engine and trans that every supplier seems to have and go that way.


Something like this but this isn't a suggestion to buy this one as they are available from a lot of sources http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Small-...Kit,81335.html

More here than you want to look at but it shows a variety of tubular trans mounts to pick from. http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Search...smission+mount

That would be the simple do it in a day way of installing the engine and trans. I've used a number of that style of engine crossmember over the years and they really simplify things on and installation.

[rrenner]

I have that same setup. Plenty of clearance. Make the engine is back enough, depending on radiator chosen, and getting out the dist. can be a tight fit.

[Tod59]

You guys are GREAT, thanks!

[JimDirt]

Originally Posted by rrenner

Attachment 1501617

Attachment 1501618
I have that same setup. Plenty of clearance. Make the engine is back enough, depending on radiator chosen, and getting out the dist. can be a tight fit.

rrenner:
In that second pic , is the reason you have the tranny crossmember under the frame and the spacer (wood is temporary i assume) to the mount is because of the power brake booster ?? , and if so is the booster in the "normal" location ?? , and is this a issue with all under floor power boosters and the tube type engine/tranny mounts ??

[rrenner]

Jimdirt,

In this picture the cross member was temporarily clamped in for test fitting. The final position has it hanging in the frame rail. The booster is in the normal spot. Its a pretty close fit.

[OrrieG]

If you are just going to drive on the street for show and shines and occasional cruises you can get by removing the original bellhousing crossmember. But it is what ties the frame rails together at the rear spring shackles so any side loading on the shackle will move the frame right near the front body mounts. You can get a TH350 to fit above the cross member and below the cab floor. Makes getting to the front pan bolts interesting but not impossible, I have had mine off twice. You will also need to fabricate a two piece converter cover, it will not go in in one piece. Here are some photos of mine. I used a modified stock 74 truck tranny tailhousing mount for the transmission/transfer.