Looking to move forward with an engine set-up for my 51 Merc project. Thinking y-block or if it would fit MEL. Anybody ever install that big block in a 49-51? If so, what mods need to happen for it to fit? Opinions /advice welcome.
Y-block and MELS don't do justice to 49-51 Mercs. Hemi, Nailhead or Caddy is more traditional. But, if you want assured reliability and ease of maintenance the LS-1 can't be beat. It all depends on how deep your pockets are and whether you want a traditional or modern day build. Then, there's the transmission and rear question to deal with.
My '51 Full Custom Merc had a real chopped Carson top, nailhead Buick, '37 Roadmaster box...(Nash grille, canted Chrysler quad headlamps) Originally built by a member of San Jose Rod & Wheelers. Buick fit like a glove. Drove a little 'truckish' for a Full Custom, but when I had to do a clutch job...the whole floor plate came out, just like a '46 Ford! That's when I also replaced the tranny crossmember. Replaced the angle iron (EEK!) member with a simple 'K', out of square tube, 1.25" welded with a suitable rubber mount! Traded the car in a circle of friends, was finally gotten back by another ROD & WHEELER member, (by that name on HAMB...) Dennis. Buick would be a winner with 400 Turbo-Hydramatic...Just a dream... Sat in there like John Stimac's, above.
Ran a 392 Hemi in one back in the late 60's .Bought the car off a used car lot for 75 bucks and drove it from Michigan to Miami with the original Flattie and overdrive.
I appreciate the response to the thread however I'm still looking for info on install tips on a y-block or MEL. I know someone out there has put a y block in a Merc. I like the nailhead, caddy set-ups but I already have a y block core for mock up
My 50 still under construction. More info here - https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/y-block-in-a-merc-49-51.1030047/
My son just put up a rebuilt 390 caddy engine for sale. https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/1951-ford-sedan-shoebox-project-w-390-cadillac.1058185/ ..
Follow the link japchris posted up. There in is the info you need and also explains why you don't see Fords early front sump motors in the 49-51 Merc's very often. The mid and rear sump motors were much easier to install. That led us to the GM line of power. The Wizzard
Pist-n-Broke is right, however if you find a real 55-57 T-Bird oil pan and pick up, block off the full flow oil filter, the Y-block fits right in.
After reading the link japchris posted, I realize how much fabrication is going to be involved in y block conversion. I'm only into the mock up core for $150. Any opinions on what would drop in with least amount of altercations? Nailhead, caddy? No small block suggestions please... will not go that route.
How fast do you want to go? Are you planning on drag racing, road racing, street and hiway driving or what? How much power do you want? How much power does your daily have now? Are you satisfied with it? Put in the smallest motor that will give you the performance you want. Or do like a lot of guys do around here, put in the biggest baddest big block you can find then leave it in the garage because A) it is no fun to drive and B) they can't afford to put gas in it. I wish I was kidding but I'm not.
Called Lead Sled for a reason. Cruiser no drag racing necessary. Have a 68 GTO for that. It is a big car that has some big custom parts so I want/need to be able to move if need be on CA freeways. Distance driving most likely not a issue cause she'll be trailered for that. A buddy just recommended Olds so that's another option.
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