CHRYCHILE Posted August 17, 2014 Report Share Posted August 17, 2014 Hi! I'll try to be brief: I am starting to restore a 1941 Plymouth convertible which was put aside long ago after a collision affecting the front left corner that damaged mostly that part of the frame as well as sheetmetal. I have obtained a straight frame that belonged to a 41 sedan, which seems to be identical apart from having reinforcing plates over and under the frame just ahead of the X member. Question: could I use this sedan frame by adding the plates I mentioned? Or...? Next, I have the original engine 201.3 CI engine but would prefer to install a slightly larger but similar looking flathead six. I also have a rebuilt engine from a 47 Plymputh (217.8 CI) but then also have a larger appearing Mopar of hich I ignore size and year but its definitely a later year; also, it is a full inch longer when measured along the head. Question: how can I properly identify this engine? Otherwise, any clue as to its origins? Any and all comments much welcome! Thanks, Lars Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Young Ed Posted August 17, 2014 Report Share Posted August 17, 2014 Depending on the extent of the damage it may be a lot easier to have a frame shop pull the convertible frame straight. I had my frame straightened after an accident I think it was $400. Otherwise I believe you'll be ok transfering the X member over to the sedan frame. The shop that did Dads 51 convert did that to a 46-48 convert they did. You'll have to post some more info about that other engine. How long is it? What are the numbers just below the head behind the waterpump? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Don Coatney Posted August 17, 2014 Report Share Posted August 17, 2014 Don't be brief. The more information you share the better answers you will get. As Ed mentioned look for a number on your big engine above the generator such as I have pictured below. A big engine will fit in your car with a few modifications. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CHRYCHILE Posted August 18, 2014 Author Report Share Posted August 18, 2014 Hi Young Ed and Don: thanks for the help. I prefer to go the sedan frame route in this case as I am located in Valparaiso, Chile and frame strengthening is done here but mainly on trucks....I should have mentioned my location! As to the engine I am not familiar with the main differences between them, but I'll check those numbers in the first place; maybe you can help then. Thanks! Lars 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
B-Watson Posted August 18, 2014 Report Share Posted August 18, 2014 If the engine is a 217.8-cid it should bolt in no problem as it is a 23" block , same as the engine in the convertible. Being a 1947 Plymouth, the engine number should begin with "P15- " followed by up to seven numbers. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CHRYCHILE Posted August 18, 2014 Author Report Share Posted August 18, 2014 Thanks for the help on my engine questions, fellows. I went over to check the engine numbers as advised by Don but unfortunately found that someone sometime filed away the number (!), so I don't have a number. I measured the head and it is 23" long by 7" wide and the head bolts are 21 total, in three rows of seven each. Does that ring a bell or do I have to remove the head to check the diameter? Could it be a 217.8? The engine has a modern style oil sump vent and also a factory oil filter, if that means anything. Thanks, Lars 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Young Ed Posted August 18, 2014 Report Share Posted August 18, 2014 23" should be 201 218 or 230. Checking bore and stroke is the only way to be sure now. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CHRYCHILE Posted August 19, 2014 Author Report Share Posted August 19, 2014 Ok Ed, thanks. I'll do that. Lars Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Young Ed Posted August 19, 2014 Report Share Posted August 19, 2014 Ok Ed, thanks. I'll do that. Lars Easiest way to start is with the plug over #6 cyl. That will tell you if you have a 201/218 or 230. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lloyd Posted August 19, 2014 Report Share Posted August 19, 2014 23" should be 201 218 or 230. Checking bore and stroke is the only way to be sure now. 218 and 230 had the same bore. Stroke was different. If you can get to the crank the numbers on the crank may help. Heres a couple links I have used which can help with the numbers: http://musclecarclub.com/members/castingnumbers/Mopar1.shtml http://www.t137.com/registry/help/otherengines/otherengines.php Ed how would you know by the plug over #6? 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Young Ed Posted August 19, 2014 Report Share Posted August 19, 2014 218 and 230 had the same bore. Stroke was different. If you can get to the crank the numbers on the crank may help. Heres a couple links I have used which can help with the numbers: http://musclecarclub.com/members/castingnumbers/Mopar1.shtml http://www.t137.com/registry/help/otherengines/otherengines.php Ed how would you know by the plug over #6? Assuming his engine still turns over you can measure the stroke by inserting a piece of wire into that hole. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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