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Olds 350 - Footprint Smaller than 6.2/6.5?
I just picked up a 1948 Chevy 2dr coupe - has a rebuilt SBC gasser and TH350 auto currently, but I just can't get that excited about that set up.
So I"m thinking a diesel swap is in order...
For those of you that have had both a 350 diesel and a 6.2/6.5, is the 350 any smaller externally? The 48's engine compartment is a little tight widthwise; the SBC fits fine but there is not a lot of extra room.
Thanks.
Joe.
2006 Chevy K2500 LLY Duramax/Allison Crew Cab!
1996 Chevy C2500 6.5 auto Ext. Cab LB
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I couldn't say for sure but ive heard the olds 350 is the same size as as sbc. The 6.5 is about the same size as a big block motor.
Last edited by AfterhoursFab; 09-08-2014 at 16:02.
'99 Suburban 6.5TD
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Don't know about cars of this vintage, but a 6.5 will fit fine in a late '40s or early 50's pickup truck. We did a story on a 1951 GMC with a turbocharged 6.5L some years ago. Jim
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I would stay away from the 350, as it's a BOP motor. Much easier to use a Chevy motor to help finding transmissions for it.
I've driven a few 350 Diesels, they aren't horrific, but the 6.2 is better, and a Turbo'd 6.5 is better than a 6.2.
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Ah yes the trans bolt pattern is different too. But i guess if you could source a 350d then id guess there could be a trans hanging off it as well. Your better bet may be a small 4cyl motor like an early 80s Benz. They use them a lot for Jeep swaps, would be cool to have in that car altho its npt bowtie.
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Actually, adapter plates to go from BOP to Chevy trans and vice versa can be had pretty easily for not too much $$, so that shouldn't be a deal killer.
I've thought about the 6.2/6.5, but am wondering if it would be too heavy. I was thinking the olds diesel would be lighter, although maybe not by that much. The existing car front suspension is coil sprung - I could probably get higher capacity springs.
I'd also like decent performance; not sure the olds 350 could get there. Probably need a turbo with low boost - even then it might not hold up.
The easiest would be a MB 5-cyl turbo, but I was hoping to stay all GM if possible.
Thanks for the input so far.
Joe.
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