216 to 235 swap

I have a 1951 Chevy Styleline Deluxe. It has a 216 with a "3 on the tree", manual transmission. I believe the ****** is a Muncie 318.

I just bought a 1962 235 engine that came with a 3 on the tree (with OD). I believe that ****** is a Muncie 319.

My question is can I swap out the old engine and transmission for the new 235 and Muncie 319 (with OD) without changing out my rear end?

I believe my old rear end is "closed drive", "torque-tube".

If that's not possible, will my old transmission bolt up to my new 235?

I apologize if this has been covered before. I used the search, but didn't see anything.

Thanks in advance.

 

There is no practical way to connect the '62 open drive transmission to your closed drive (torque tube) rear axle. Since you have the complete eng/trans from the '62, and it's an OVERDRIVE, you would be well ahead if you swap out the closed drive rear end for and open drive. There are many rear axles suitable for that purpose, it will (should) not be exensive and is relative simple to do.

However, yes, you can install the '62 engine using your olds trans. You will have to use everything behind the block, i.e. bellhousing, flywheel, starter, clutch, etc. and it's all bolt on.
you may need to modify (or replace) the water pump just a bit to get radiator clearance.

edit: one advantage of using your original trans is the simplicity of clutch and shift linkage...no changes needed.

But, the later trans is an improvement on your original......so.......

Best wishes with your project.

Ray

 

Thanks Ray. I appreciate the information and advice