VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND EARLIER 1937-1945 46 1/2ton motor swap

my '46 1/2 ton has a '50 (HAA) 216 that is shot. bottom end is froze, as well as the orig 3 spd tranny. i want to upgrade to a pressure oiled 235 (or a 261) and a 4 speed. what is the latest year that would be a direct bolt in replacement and still keep the torque tube?
i would call the 216 rebuildable but can not comment on the viability of any part of the engine. if any one is interested in purchasing the motor for a rebuild or parts, let me know and i will email some pics to you. located in northeast philly, pa

I´m not sure about the 261, but the last year for 235 was 1962.

/Bengt

The 235 up to '62 will bolt in. Will have to install a short shaft water pump or get the adapter plate for the old 216 style water pump. The newer 4 spd trannys are not a direct bolt in. Will have to go with your rebuilt 3 speed or get a 41 -46 4 spd but these don't have synchro in any of the gears.

Using one of those old 41-46 4 speeds is almost a step backwards.

Joe