273 swap in 51 cranbrook

[Seanemry]

Im debating on doing a 273 swap out of a running and driving dodge dart. The dart is completely rusted out but good drive train. Anyone done this? I found a company that sells the engine conversion from butches hot rod shop.

[Don Coatney]

Have you done a forum search on this subject? Lots of information out there.

[Seanemry]

Tried but it said no matches

[Plymouthy Adams]

the 273 is the first of the LA engines...try searching for LA, 318, 340, 360 etc.    has been done here numerous times.  If you have never done any fabrication work you are going to have to source someone who makes some of the bolt in mounts etc.  Other things is offset of engine, possible firewall mod, clearance issues for the tranny if automatic.  Shifting issues...pedal modifications.  Radiator moved in front of the shell...for every little modification you will often generate a couple more items needing allowances...being an A-body 273 odds are you have the correct manifolds for steering clearance..if not this will be another concern.  Your cooling to run the 273 will need be closed pressured system.  Tons of things to consider, make you a list and juggle it against you plans to alter change adapt and overcome...many get into the middle of these upgrades and get overwhelmed and the car goes to the scrapper...just begin informed...you cannot read too much information for sure..

[wayfarer]

Here is a starting point:  http://p15-d24.com/topic/25759-318-into-my-50-coronet/

[thebelvedereman]

Butchscoolstuff.com has what you need, your dart also has a 904 trans which is a smaller diameter than a 727, for more clearance and your 273 does have the "good" manifolds

[dpollo]

Use a rear sump pan from a 318 truck  and watch for brake pedal arm clearance  as well as steering box clearance.