V8 in 1938 Plymouth

I have a 1938 Plymouth P5 sedan with the stock 201 ci.in.flat six. Can anyone please tell me if it is possible to install a small block v8 in this car,without replacing the steering-box etc I would like the car to look as stock as possible,and even make the engine look as if was placed there in the beginning
I have tried the search-function,but to no help.

 

A small block Plymouth V8? sure, use the driver side Dart exhaust manifold, and scoot the engine over to the p***enger side a little ways, and it'll look just like how they were installed in Darts.

That manifold is funky, it goes up and around the steering shaft

 

Seems to be a tight fit. Guess it wouldn't be any roomier with another small block,-like a Chevrolet. Thing is-I have a Chev 350 in my garage. Of course a little early Hemi would be more exciting,but I have to do this on a very tight budget.

 

Any V-8 will require a little offset to the p***enger side. An engine with the dizzy in the front might be slightly easier. I've had a SBC in my '38 Chrysler for several years- am now replacing it with a big block Mopar.

I did put a rack & pinion & modified the steering column in mine, but the sbc fit before that too.

I can post pics when I get home from work.

 

Engine offset is of no harm or foul, for those concerned. Manufacturers have been doing this for years, in all sorts of vehicles. Squirrel's solution looks like the way to go for a Mopar.

For a SBC, it would be a matter of finding an exhaust solution on the driver's side. I've seen a rear-dump p***enger's side exhaust manifold, put on the driver's side. Not sure if that would work here.

 

Would very much like to see those photos. Thank you.

 

A small v8 in there will be no problem. Like the other guys have said, you will more than likely require an offset towards the p***enger side. With a sbc, finding an exhaust manifold to clear the steering should be no problem either.(or some modification/fabrication may be required). Good luck!