Engine set back ?s

[Tim240Z]

I found some info in the archives regarding using the rearward holes on the chassis rails to move the engine back by 2.5 inches, but the info there says to use the I-6 mount brackets to line up with the existing bottom hole on the X-member. Is there any reason why I couldn't use the V8 mount brakets and drill a new hole for the bottom bolt in the X-member. Also, any other problems to look out for? I am dropping in a L31 from a 99 Suburban with a 4L60E. Since I have to shorten the driveshaft anyways, I thought why not push the engine back some to get some weight off the nose. Here are some pics of the days work:


The engine that I took out:


The cupboard is bare:


Thanks for any pointers!!

Tim

[69 longhorn]

That should give you 2 1/2" of setback.....if you use the I6 stands, its a 3 1/2" setback. that is due to the shape of the stands, or better put, where the eng mount hole is drilled in the 2 different stands. I like to drill out the eng mount hole in the stands to 5/8", to get the bolts started easier, when swapping engines or replacing mounts. one other deal is that you will need to redrill the holes in the frame for the trans crossmember(might not be fun with the cab on the truck). best of luck,crazyL

[Tim240Z]

Thanks for the tips!!
As for the trans X-member, it just so happens that there are a perfect set of holes pre-drilled by the factory exactly 6.5 inches back, which according to my measurements are perfect (4 inches for the longer 4L60E from the TH350, and the extra 2.5 inches from moving the engine mounts back).
Now....I haven't dropped in the new engine and trans yet, so there maybe some 'fine-tuning' required, but I can slot the engine mount holes and the tranny mount holes a bit if needed.
I won't be dropping in the new engine immediately as I want to do the Van tilt-column conversion while the engine bay is empty, and I want to redo the fuel lines, all the body mounts and some other misc. stuff while the engine bay is clear.
Also, it looks like I am going to have to fab some thing up to connect the shifter linkage to the trans. The TH350 mechanism doesn't look like it will be even close to working. Anyone have a good solution for that?
Shouldn't be a big deal to whip something up though.....

Tim

[GlennBrittain]

I have a 350 with a MSD HEI, mounted with six engine stands in the back set of holes. The only problem with this set up is latching down the back fasteners on the dist. cap. Very close to the firewall. Not sure about the engine you plan to use. I am considering using the engine you mentioned in a 69 I am working on, let me know what holes you use. I found a set of V8 stands and a auto cross member in a junk yard, just have to go back a pull them.