Im collecting parts for my build, A 30-31 A coupe, or a 30's truck. I had my mind set on a SBC( I know,boring) But I can build a hard hitting sbc in my sleep.Put a tricky intake on it, and call it a day. But today I was at a good buddys shop and was offered a HEMI, its a dissasembled 1956-7 341 Desoto. Now I dont know much about these motors, so I did a little research and they are pretty pricey to build, but the cool factor would be high. So im up in the air about it. I could get the thing for a couple hun, the block has been boiled, crank is freshly polished,he says its got pop up pistons, and a hot cam but I didnt see em. Im just worried about finding parts, and the headaches that will go with this thing. What do you think.....
In the past speed parts for DeSotos were almost nonexistant. Only 10% had a 4 bl & maybe 1-2% 2X4. However as intrest in early Hemis is growing a little stuff is/will become available. The DeSoto is smaller & lighter that the Chr. Hemis, a + on your car! It wont be cheap, but it isn't a Chevy!
I did a hemi for the same reason did not want another sbc in a ford. You might want to call hotheads and talk to Bob Walker about parts availability or visit there web site you will get an ideal what it cost.
If that 341 is a 56 it should have a should have a stock 2x4. Its the Adventurer engine. The block ID should start with S24A. Hot heads is a good place for parts.
If all this is true go for it. Good pistions and camshafts seem to be some of the hardest parts to find for DeSoto hemis. Plus, if you change your mind later, you can sell it and at least get your money back.
Venolia or Ross will make pistons for you (or Egge)...your cam can be reground by any cam outfit (talk to George at Clay Smith)...think outside the box and ask questions..it ain't as tuff as some guys think..
No brainer here. Bellybutton motor verses a HEMI!!!! for my Model "A". Gee, I wonder which one I'd choose?
I know this is an old thread, but what was the outcme? Did Low&Loud go for it, and WAS indeed a 2X4 '56. Man, if that was an Adventurer engine for a couple or three hundred, WHAT a deal.
He was here yesterday, and posted this a while back...looks like he went back to his SBC, although the car does look nice... http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=2288611#post2288611
WelcomeI have the same motor for my 33 chevy stuff is definatly easier to get now .Chet herbert now roller cam blanks hydralic small mopar block rollers work on the hemi forum here is great!!
The Jalopy Journal
