subject: 1939 Ford Four Door Deluxe Project Part 3 [print this page] 1939 Ford Four Door Deluxe Project Part 3
Now that everything is ready to go in, lets assemble our engine and trans.
Engine
Our Chevy 350 came complete from oil pan to carb and was even broken in. Distributor was also installed so we need to be careful not to hit the firewall when installing. Now is the time to install our block hugger headers and spark plugs. Wires can go on after the engine is in. We installed our flywheel with new grade 8 bolts.
Transmission
Our trans came with a 1500-1800 stall converter as this is destined to be a reliable daily driver, not a drag racing Hot Rod. We installed a new factory trans mount as it will work correctly with the new crossmember.
The marriage
We mated our engine and trans keeping in mind not to force anything. We put a bit of grease on the center of the torque converter to aid in installation. Prior to bolting trans to engine, make sure the torque converter spins free and is not bound up. Then bolt the trans to engine, and then torque converter to flywheel. In doing this, you will be assured that everything lines up correctly. Trans linkage will be hooked up later once drivetrain is bolted in.
In it goes
Be sure to reuse the engine leveler we used to remove the old engine. Especially now as everything is pretty and shiny. There is more than sufficient room and what a great final product it will be. Looks like a flathead lead sled, just isnt! Make sure to get all your bolts started before final tightening. Note: Make sure torque tube and drive shaft are removed prior to installing modern motor and trans. You will not have room and the new driveshaft is completely different.
The bolt-ons go on
Now we can install the bolt-ons. Starter can go in, front engine pulleys and belts, alternator, spark plug wires. There really isnt too much. Just remember, take your time, do it right, do it once, do it nice! At this point you need to figure out what to do with your cooling. We opted for a new aluminum radiator and a separate trans cooler. Our new aluminum radiator has the correct inlet and outlet necks in the correct Chevy locations.
Gas and Go
Gas pedal linkage is an upgrade to Lokar. It is a universal fit and works well. Same with the shifter. Since it is an automatic, we floor mounted the shifter and even used his shifter knob off of the old three speed to give it the original look. The kickdown cable is attached to the carb via a universal mount kit.
Next time: We prepare for wiring and rear end
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