I recently ran across a '51 Ford Victoria that was quitely rusting in my buddie's junkyard. It currently has the old flathead six in it with the three speed and hasn't run in 20 years or so. The body is straight but rusted and the hood is missing so I am thinking of making it a low buck beater. I am wondering what would be the best choice for updating the running gear. Any suggestions?
The running gear, or the engine? I'll get the flames started here and say: Small Block Chevy!!!! Okay, let the abuse begin. What about saving some loot and looking around for a runner?
Engine: 302/C4 is a popular swap, kits are available. If you truely have no taste you could go the 350 route, there is a kit for that too. I'd think about sporting the flat 6. Rear end: If you find a 8" out of a Ford Maverick, its nearly a complete bolt in for an upgraded rear end. I did one in my '50 Tudor and it worked great.
depends really. The ****** is still good and so is the rear end. Obviously the brakes are shot though, as well as the radiator and wiring. What could I put in it that allow me to keep that running gear other than a flathead? If nothing, then what would you guys/gals use?
Thanks, do you know who makes the best conversion for it? Any advice on headers, intake options, etc is appreciated.
You should pick up a copy of Tex Smith's "How to build Shoebox Ford's" Lots of good info in there. Also try: www.shoeboxford.com Hot rods and custom supply in cape coral, FL has the conversion mounts, I think they have a website too. Someone on here in the cl***ifieds has a running flathead v8 and ****** for $600. That's your best and easiest bet. I had a '51 tudor with a 289 and c-4 as a daily driver and loved it. I'm currently building a Vicky with a 351 because the car came with no motor and my dad gave me this one: complete rebuild with 380hp. Even in you get a junkyard smallblock your going to spend more when all is said and done than $600. You should look into that flathead.
Also, the stock rearends hold up fine if you don't abuse them, just reseal the axles and change the fluid.
The Jalopy Journal
