What engine is a Desoto w/S22 on the block?

Just got new 40 Ford cpe project home. It has Desoto hemi w/39 Ford trans and 4.11 Ford rearend. It has a 2 bbl carb.

Anybody know what yr engine, cubic inches, horsepower?

All help appreciated. Al

 

Cool car, you have to give us some block #'s to figure out your engine ci. And year.

 

Hothemiheads.com says it is a 1955 291ci Firedome, 2 barrel Carb, 185hp

 

What he said.

http://www.cl***ichemi.com/index1.shtml

 

Thanks. Now at least I know what I've got. It should be adequate power to replace the 85 HP flathead.

Now have to fabricate some chatter bars to eliminate clutch chatter.

Opportunities. Wiring will be another. I'll get pic of current gas tank--- one gallon can in p***enger area.

New projects are always interesting.

Thanks again, Al

 

1958, I helped my bud Mike Shannon install a 291 DeSoto in his '40 Coupe. (Santa Clara, CA.) Weiand adaptor, 6 cyl Dodge pickup flywheel, '49 Merc clutch & pressure plate. Honest Charlie sent motor mounts, beautiful installation, easy fit. Gas station attendants were totally 'wowed' by engine size.

Nice 'forty you found, Al. Love those 'Standards'.

 

The install on this looks pretty clean but it is TIGHT fit. Looks like used carefully trimmed angle iron to bolt to stock flathead mount area with flathead cushions used between engine mt and top of new bracket.

 

Since its used to hauling about 1000 lbs more of desoto around it should be pretty happy in there.

 

Could you post a close-up photo of the engine? I'll bet it is a rather tight fit. Will be a big draw at many car shows. Fortunately there are quite a few parts available for these engines now that Hot Heads is in business. Bill

 

Wow, a 40 Standard! I'm jellyous! Cool...

 

Pretty sure the small Desoto Hemi's didn't have a harmonic balancer....but I could be wrong. If not then I would recommend upgrading to one for maximum engine life.

Very nice car, and set-up you have there!

 

It's the low deck version of Dodges that didn't have one.

 

I have one sitting in my back yard. Yard art.

 

the 276/291 low deck DeSotos definately have a harmonic balancer...