Planning on swapping in a '58 olds 371 engine to replace a flathead in a '29 Ford roadster -AV8 build with stock Model A frame and stock steering. I'm aware of the driver-side starter interference with the steering box and have feelers out for an Olds starter crossover adapter to flip it to the p***enger side of the engine. However, I'm wondering if there would still be a problem with the steering box clearance near the block and how others may have resolved that issue. I've got a spare '56 F100 column and steering box which may or may not resolve the space problem, if it replaced the Model A column and box. Anybody done this? School me,please....any help/insights would be appreciated...
I would mock up the block between the rails, see where everything lines up, and modify as needed. Just tack everything, because you can bet you A$$ you'll be re-working this a few times...my 2 cents
I've got a 62' Olds 394 in my 30 coupe. No issues at all. But I'm running a Vega box. No clearance issues with the starter at all.
...thanks Hway Hauler, that is inevitable, I suppose.... chopped51 thanks as well. Did your '30 coupe have original (unsplit) bones and the Vega cross-steer underneath it all?
F-100 box takes up more real estate than a model a... Cross steer, cowl steer, right hand starter or locating steering box on top of frame would be the way out... Or go euro.. Right hand steer
HH....I was up there on the Canadian Rodder Hot Rod Tour a few years ago and did the Copper Cliff Show and had a great time. I love your friendly rivalry with the Timmins hooligans..... Thanks thirtytwo...that pretty well lays out the available options. I've seen the right hand steer option (maybe here on the HAMB) but am uncertain about the mechanics/parts/pros/cons of that type of install....I'll dig around for info....
Ive a changeover thats been clearance for more room thats availble..... as well as my mini starters that most likely will give enough room in the stock location.....or can be used on a changover as well.
Have a Buick in my 30. Using a Saginaw 525 cross steer set up and had to shift motor 1/2" to p***enger side to clear. Also needed block hugger headers. Canuck
Goatroper02 Thanks for the info, Tony....Speedy Canuck says you are THE MAN when it comes to Olds swapping knowledge etc. I pick up the engine this week and will be taking measurements and planning a course of action knowing you have the parts available... Canuck Thanks for that suggestion re: the cross steer 525 option.....haven't started looking at block huggers yet... verde742 I researched this type of upgrade so the engine would mate up to the '39 truck trans that is in the roadster (AV8 build) in order to avoid transmission, driveline, rear end, frame changes. Budget is a major consideration too....thanks for your comments
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