V-8 in stock frame?

[53Stakebed]

Hi all. I'm new here and have read a lot of the threads, and you guys have some really nice trucks and projects. My question is....has anyone swapped a v-8 into a stock frame with stock front suspension? I'm can make the mounts work, no problem. My concern is that big 'ol steering box and clearance for the engine/manifolds. Everyone seems to be using S-10 stuff or fabricating front ends. I'd like to retain some of the truck's stock flavor. I have a 261 that I can use, but I also have a built 350 that I'd like to use but don't know about the fit. Suggestions?

[57ToyBox]

What are you putting it in? any pix of your ride?

[53Stakebed]

Will put up some pics later in week. '53 1/2 ton, it's a real turd right now. Have speedway front disc kit, front lowering springs, rear lowering springs, and a lot of goodies for 261 like fenton headers, offy 2x1 intake, mallory dist, etc.... Was just toying with idea of v-8 instead since I have one I took out of my '63 Impala SS

[57ToyBox]

Well it must be doable I google it in hopes to get a picture of an engine compartment with a V8 in it. Found this first.
http://americandreamcars.com/1953chevypkupsr111806.htm
I'll try ASK.com

[53Stakebed]

Yeah, but they're using mustang II suspension and the rack eliminates the stock steering box. I'll keep looking. Thanks.

[54 jimmy]

you can fit a v8 in the stock frame. i,m not sure of the kit but i know someone eles out there know who makes the kit. i have seen them before just can't seem to remember where.

[OrrieG]

Look at using a saddle after market style or a front mount like the 55-57. You can get those online too or fab one out of flat plate. The front eliminates conflict with exhaust and steering box.

[54 jimmy]

speedway motors sells those front type mounts.

[LB181]

53Stakebed, I am attempting an LS1 style engine (5.3 vortec) into a stock frame. Like everyone is telling you, if you used a front mount on your engine, you wouldn't have to worry about interference with the engine mount/steering box. You would then probably need block huggers, and it would be a really tight fit between the exhaust and box. If you wanted to do power steering at the same time, you could get a conversion kit from places like CPP, that use a 69-87 chevy truck box. That is the route I am trying to go, but routing the steering shaft to the outside of the frame, plus the exhaust is going to require some creativity. Not trying to discourage you, because you have to do what makes you happy, but your 261 seems pretty decked out. Thats just me crying because I took my slow 6 cylinder out that was working perfectly fine, and the thing has been sitting for like three years. Haha. How did you like the speedway disc kit, did it replace the bearings with tapered bearings?

[53Stakebed]

Haven't installed the speedway disc kit yet, but I'll let you know how it goes. When I bought my truck ($400) I got an extra frame with it. Just got the extra frame home today and am stripping out the front and rear suspensions (e-brake cables at back are a *****) in order to work on the frame and get started putting the new stuff on it. Sure is nice to have a naked frame and be able to leave the truck together while I work on it. I'll probably just use the 261 because that was the original plan and I don't want to change horses in mid-stream (big mistake) since ya need to have a plan and stick with it. Gonna go old school with it. Thanks for input.

[primered 55]

You can do it; my 55 1st series came with an SBC and home-fabbed motor mounts. The steering box is spaced over about 5/8" inch, with a small amount trimmed from the firewall to acommodate the column. Sanderson CC1 headers with 1 1/2 primaries. The box is extremely close to the headers, but so far I haven't encountered any issues.

[53Stakebed]

Thanks guys....back to breakin' rusty bolts.......