v8 Engine swap costs

[Dan Babb]

Putting together a budget before I decide to buy a motor I found locally.

It's a 1956 Chrysler Industrial 354 Hemi. It was pulled out of an aircraft tug and was running well when the current owner pulled it out.

My current plan is for no rebuild. I'll get it running on an engine stand first to make sure it's good enough to drop in. If it runs, then I'd proceed to pull the front clip off my 52 B3B and begin the fun stuff.

After searching here and doing some measurements, it looks like it will fit (with some mods to the radiator position). I found pics here of a guy who put a 331 Hemi in his and it didn't sound too bad.

So, I'm trying to list everything I can think of budget wise.

Here's my short list...please tell me what I'm missing and where my costs are out of whack.

I know this won't be exact because you never stick to a budget...I just want to make sure I catch all the major stuff.

Another question: You think the value of a running 52 with a Hemi would be worth more than one with a running Flat6 (to all but the purists)?

Edited March 15, 2010 by Dan Babb

[ssdodge51]

I am planning on doing a similar thing to my truck except I am going to use a small block chevy and 700R4 transmission. ( I already have both). I have a 55 Chevy and a 37 Ford both with this combination and it is very hard to beat and provides minimal installation issues.

My biggest concern used to be the overall value of the truck when it was finished but I haven't seen one of these trucks bring much money anyway certainly not like a Ford or Chevy. I don't really care though, I like the truck almost nobody owns one around here and it is different.

[Bob_Koch]

I guess my only question is about steering. Is the steering tight? Are shocks OK?

I think you're smart about the engine. If it runs fine, put it in and enjoy it. Worry about rebuilding later when the time dictates.

AND, double your estimate, because it always ends up costing twice as much. After 4 years of working on mine and still not on the road I can tell ya my estimates were way off.

[austinsailor]

You can cut the cost of your water pump by having it rebuilt.

There is a guy who's specialized for years in older water pump rebuilds. Try "The Flying Dutchman" at http://www.fdrbp.com/.

A friend and I have both used him and found his service to be very good. Cost is most likely around $100. It'll be a much better pump than an original one, using modern seals and bearings.

[Dave72dt]

If you think you're going to sell and make money on the project, you'll be disappointed. The only person who makes money on this type of build is the person you hire to work on it. Any build with an early Hemi will draw lookers wherever you go regardless of the finish of the project. Post up some pics as you go.

[tinlizzy]

Don't see an alternator?

Drive Shaft?

Master Cyclinder and booster for power brakes.

Shifter for auto?

[smallblockjunkie]

As stated above better double the cost of the project. I think you are light on some of the prices that you have already stated.

[Dan Babb]

Alternator was missing...I was thinking about keeping the truck 6v and was going to reuse the ones from the current engine...but I might just switch to 12v while I have everything out (easier to rewire the truck)

I estimated the whole front disc conversion at 600 after reading some posts here. Driveshaft is in the driveline section.

Anyway..money is a moot point now....I bought the engine tonight and will take it slow.

I want to get it cleaned up and running first. Then later this year, I'll try to do the swap as a winter project. I don't think I'd drive it much in the winter anyway, so that should keep me occupied.

[Plymouthy Adams]

This will ultimately be referred to in the future as your "short list" in adventures such as these the ever shifting line in the sand can be challenging, fun and a PITA all at the same time..but 1/2 the fun is in getting there, the list of things done will be long and well remembered...the advice on estimated costs...that be real..It is not at all hard to find the pit getting deeper and deeper as you progress. Sad part is that many cars never seen the road after the start of similar ventures as they failed to realize the total work and ultimate cost involved. Good luck..would like to see some pics of your vehicle now and the proposed drivetrain before install...

[D25_Owner]

You could save $150 on the water pump by using these:

http://www.hothemiheads.com/water_pumps/adapter_bbc_55-58.html

Adaptors plus pump should be under $100.

[Don Coatney]

As you progress through your project always remember "FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION".

I always kept this thought in my mind as I built my project car. It seems to help when the going gets tough.

In 1968 I spent the winter in Florida and worked as a mechanic in a gas station in Sarasota. The station owner had a pilothouse truck (I have no idea of the year) and had installed an early hemi in the truck. Everytime I had to make a run to the parts store I drove this truck. It would flat out get up and go. And as a 21 year old I had 2 speeds. Full throttle, and full brakes.

[msjenkins]

This is a little off the subject but does involve a v8 Would anybody be interested in a slightly used 318??

I am trying feverishly to get my 360 together and in the truck before the BBQ in CA. next month. If anybody is interested, I will throw the 318 in the back and bring it with me.

Engine runs OK but definitely needs freshened up. Engine runs OK but doesn't have the guts at 5500 ft to make much of a hot rod (more like a warm rod)

It won't be free but will be cheap.