First post in prolly 15 years? Got a new project, dad is too old to build his 34 Ford PU so its moving to my shop. I'm evaluating engines and I know you guys can help. Can I install a small block Chevy (1st choice, 2nd is a Ford Windsor) in this truck with the stock firewall? I'll post a pic when she gets here next month.
I had a SB chevy in my ‘32 pick up (w& ugly big HEI) I didn’t build it. I know your firewall is bigger but it should definitely fit with a small cap distributor.
As Triumph has said, small cap distributor, used with a short water pump. There is more valuable space to be gained by pressing the water pump fan boss further on the shaft (about a 1/2 inch), and selecting or making the crank, water pump and alternator pulleys to line the fan belt up. A flat fan or one with the blades on the engine side of the fan hub helps. A late 60s C10 passenger side exhaust manifold used on the driver's side will give you steering box clearance, depending on what steering box you have. Nice project.
Ok cool. Primpro looks like the rear exhaust port is aimed directly at your steering U joint. What exhaust mani or header do you have in mind? Or will you move the column lower end?
yep its a tight fit, but you can do it. My 33 has not had the firewall touched. Need a short water pump and small points style stock distributor as others have said. Fan is tight to radiator with no real spacer. If you plan on running a hood then need either a low mount alternator bracket or one that sits it high.
Taboo, got a pic of the steering rod side of the equation? Did you got rack up front or steering gear? I surely do not want to replace the welded in OE firewall. Its in superb condition. I'll post pics when its been extracted from my dads garage. Its buried.
I am running a vega box with cross steering, used to have a F1 box with the same drivetrain. Dont have a picture of that side with the steering. Would have to dig the truck out of storage, but with the block hugger headers the joints are close but still have plenty of space for everything. The vega box mount is just a tough forward of where the side motor mounts are welded. I had to notch and gusset the motor mount for the box, but that puts the bulk of the box forward of the exhaust manifold dump.
My ‘33 has a 425 Buick. I cut the firewall out, moved it back, and welded it back in. Looks stock, more room. But it looks like a SBC fits nicely once you find the right position. (Sorry for all of the junk, it’s being used as a storage unit temporarily)
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