I have a stock '36 Fodor with a stock 21 stud motor in it. I have my eye on a '53 Merc in the area? On a 1-10 scale, one being "does itself" and ten being "don't do it" where does this swap fall? The '36 is slated for an everything but a body off rebuild with the motor being a key part. Thanks! T. Posted using the Full Custom H.A.M.B. App!
Actually there is quite a bit involved. That Merc just won't fit in there on it's own. You will need a bunch of parts and a search here will help you out. Briefly you'll need a 49-50 merc bellhousing as the 53 merc clutch linkage and bell are entirely different. You will need motor mount spacers. You will not have room for a fan as the 8BA type engine is quite a bit longer than your stock engine. ..........on and on. I ain't no expert but I've done a bunch of 8BA to early Ford conversions. I would take that engine down and convert it to 59A style cam, cover and distributor. It will make your life a whole lot easier.