Replacing 218 With 230

[Dodgebawl]

The machine shop found a crack in the 218 block that was to be rebuilt for my 49 B1B four speed. I have not found a replacement 218 block locally but I did find a 230 out of a 52 Medowbrook in a local wrecking yard.  The 230 is a long block complete from head to oil pan but does not come with any accessories or flywheel.  I am slowly learning about the flat six but I have not been around long enough to know all he differences.

I am considering the 230 but could those of you who know confirm if all the accessories, bell housing, 11 inch clutch and pressure plate from the 218 are the same as those for the 230?  Also, can I use my 218 flywheel? 

I understand that a 218 can be converted to a 230 by changing the crank and rods but other than that are the two motors externally identical? I am doing a frame off restoration and keeping the truck original as possible except for front disc brakes. A 218 is the correct motor but is there any reason for not using a 230? 

Your input and help will be greatly appreciated.  

[48Dodger]

230 crank, rods, flywheel in/on a 218ci, give you a 230ci ....

 

Here are some good places to read up on the two engines.

 

218 teardown

 

230 teardown

 

230 ID and info

 

218 vs 230 poll

 

Blueskies engine build

 

Flathead 6 ID info

 

More Flat6 Info

 

48D

Edited May 24, 2013 by 48dodger

[1952B3b23]

Thats a great bit of info you posted links to, thanks for sharing 48D.

 

-Chris

[wayfarer]

218 flywheel only on a 218 crank, same with 230...different amount of flange extension (0.185") is made up by the flywheel so the ring gear still meets the starter pinion. 

[Don Coatney]

218 flywheel only on a 218 crank, same with 230...different amount of flange extension (0.185") is made up by the flywheel so the ring gear still meets the starter pinion. 

 

 

I used a 218 flywheel on a 251 crankshaft. This was my fix for the starter alignment issue.