53 hemi into 52 Windsor

[bigdaisy19k]

Picked up a 53 331 long bellhousing hemi this weekend.  Thing is how crazy am I to try and put this into my 52 six cylinder windsor with it's fluid torque drive?

I mean it's going in no matter what, but if there's some notes on differences between V8 and 6 cylinder cars I'll need to note, (like heavier front springs), I'd appreciate the advise/opinions.  For 500 bucks it was listed as refreshed, but I still need to start a little teardown to know for sure.  

[wayfarer]

Looks like a simple swap to me. Plenty of minor details: exhaust, engine mounts, radiator hoses, electrical. None serious.

[bigdaisy19k]

That's relief, I was worried about steering box interference or a much too weak rear end.  But those things are manageable too.  

[wayfarer]

That particular 331 is not a torque monster.......the rear should be just fine.

[plymjim]

Did a swap years ago using a small hemi in a P-15. As I recall, 

Had to put heavier springs in it, notch the frame to

move the steering box over. Your engine is larger

but I'll bet you can make it fit. Good luck & keep

us posted on your progress.

[bigdaisy19k]

1 hour ago, wayfarer said:

That particular 331 is not a torque monster.......the rear should be just fine.

Hopefully the larger engine bay helps.  I was going to try and make a bit more power, but we'll cross that bridge when we get there. 

[wayfarer]

A hp per inch is easy if you are doing a full rebuild. I can supply parts for that.

As to weight, the 331 is not much heavier than your 25" L6.

[Doug&Deb]

The Saratoga is a Windsor chassis with a hemi. Should work just fine.

[Dodgeb4ya]

If the frame has the two front "out rigger" motor mount brackets for the Hemi it will almost be a bolt in.

Otherwise you will have to weld in those two front mounts.

The rear cross member should be a factory bolt in unit.

Steering gear pitman arm as  I recall is shaped different between the 265 and the 331 Hemi.

Radiator is bigger to of course.

Shouldn't be a huge hassle.

Small bits and pieces some times an irritant.

[bigdaisy19k]

I'll have to print this out, helpful stuff.  Thanks 

[wayfarer]

Keep us posted and ask lots of questions.

[bigdaisy19k]

Speaking of news, found water trapped in a couple of cylinders.  But it wasn't too rusty red.  Removed water, added penitrant and will need to pull heads. Fingers crossed. 

[Dodgeb4ya]

If that 52 Hemi did come with  the FTD converter and M6 trans...are you going to install all of it back in the Windsor?

Because the torque converter oil cooler is not connected to the water pump on the driver's side...Also don't see the torque converter adapter plate and sump housing etc.

There's quite a few parts to the FTD compared to the simple Fluid Drive with the M6 trans setup.

Just wondering..

[bigdaisy19k]

The spitfire in the Windsor is already fluid torque.. But you are right about missing parts.  I have a hopeful line on a spare 331 that may have them.