Re: New member saying hello

Posted by 58L8134 On 2015/3/13 7:47:43

Hi ChaseR

Welcome! Sounds like a worthwhile project, use and preserve components from cars that would otherwise be lost, plus create a speedster in the original mode.

The 356 is a great engine but a bit costly to rebuild, check other posting to get a better idea from those that have been there. I'd suggest if you're wanting the larger cubic inches, you consider the 1951-53 nine-main-bearing 327 block for modification. By installing a '54 Patrician 4 1/2 stroke crank and rods would yield 346.4 ci. If you have it overbored to 3 9/16, you arrive at the 359 ci same as a '54 Patrician/Pacific/Convertible/Caribbean engine. Those can also be found though are more scarce, that's why I suggest you might arrive at a larger displacement another way.

The supply of late straight eights is still quite good, parts and rebuild kits reasonably priced which was always a consideration when guys built speedsters years ago. Good Luck and keep us posted of your efforts.

Steve