1961 unibody build. What engine to use.

I have started on my 61 unibody. I am thinking on what engine to use. I am leaning toward a 6 cylinder as I have many. I have alot of 260, 300, 223.. etc parts. I have many Y blocks, flathead's and many 302-460's. I want to build something unique. The truck is a short bed. I am planning on a front axle flip. and I haven't decided on what rear suspension to use. I would like to build a truck to take to the salt flats some day. What would you guys recommend. I want to build a stroker 6 cylinder if possible. What engine combo do you guys recommend. What trans do you recommend a T-5?

Thanks

 

I'd run a Pontiac 389. They were very popular to swap into in '61 and plenty of aftermarket parts available too. That would be unique and 'Bonneville ready'. In '61 Pontiacs held a lot of records at Bonneville.

 

Y Block V8

 

i like cubes,soooo 460 mabe 2 of em...............yg

 

Y block 292. 390 FE 1969 Lincoln 460 355 PP =PIG POWER LOL

 

Y Block!

 

That 300 six backed by a five-speed would do just fine...


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know of a '61 unibody that has the cab extended and is powered by a 500" Cad ..

 

I also have a 49 buick straight eight and a 48 packard straight eight engine. A 455 pontiac. Oh decision decisions. i have many engines and parts that my dad and i have collected over the years now its time to put some of them to use. Lets here some more ideas. I like the idea of an inline powered unibody.

 

Don't use a Y-block, those things are junk. If you want, I will come get them out of your way for you free of charge!

 

Put an FE in there with solid lifters so they know you're coming. Yeah, that's the ticket.

 

What do you guys think I should use for a front and rear suspension.

 

wow I'd NEVER put a straight 8 in one.

have a 351m in mine now, getting a 302efi cleaned up and ready for it now.

Look at the 03-08 crown vic front suspension. not for veryone but I like mine.