ClassicCar

GrimGreaser

I just got a 56 motor (thanks Don!) to replace the buggered up one in my 52. So, looking at things... the bolt patterns are different between the 56 crank flange and 52 hydro flywheel. Now, in addition to the spacer from 21st Century - I take it I'll need a different flywheel (can I just modify mine?) and/or torus cover (I did a quick search...but want to make sure)? I'm not adverse to switching cranks either, just want to know where I stand.

Ken U-Tx

If you are going to rebuild the 56 block, then you can use the earlier crank in the 56 block. That may simplify things for you.

GrimGreaser

Can I just modify my flywheel to accept the new bolt pattern ect... Still using the spacer of course.

russmaas

Just use a 55/56 flywheel with the spacer if you got one. There are plenty out there if you dont. I have some extra's

maasfhcenturylinknet

May have extra 55/56 flywheels--will check if you want.
Randy
309-267-6158

GrimGreaser

Thanks, I sent Russ a PM earlier.

Could I modify my flywheel though? I have a cnc at work and access to a lathe. Or are there other differences between the two.

maasfhcenturylinknet

Yes, that would work just fine.
Randy

Ken U-Tx

If you do machine the 52 flywheel to fit onto the 55-56 short crank with spacer, try to do so that the timing marks are correctly positioned to show in the timing window of the Stepdown engine rear support when Cyl's #1 & 6 are at TDC. I have a 56 308 with the 56 flywheel and the spacer on my 1953 Hornet, so the timing marks are hidden in the Stepdown rear support plate timing window.......no biggie, I can still time by ear and vacuum gauge, but it is nice to be able to see the marks in the correct place if possible, especially if you are changing out the timing chain, oilpump/ distributor, or the drive gear! It all depends on where the bolt patterns/ dowel pins of the two different flywheels are in relation to each other.

GrimGreaser

Nice reminder. I was planning a timing mark up front on the dampener, my custom mini starter is a bit in the way of the flywheel window. It's nice to keep things lined up properly though.

TwinH

Here's a couple pics of a timing tab that the previous owner fabbed for the 308 in my 49.

Tallent R

Neat little addition
Roger :D

maasfhcenturylinknet

Good Job
Randy

hud nut

the 308 that I just took apart has been modified and seems to be a 54. What are the differences
in length of the flange on the crank and what is the starting point of the measurement?
Thanks Dan

Ken U-Tx

The 55-56 cranks are 1/2" shorter, to allow the bellhousings to clear the Nash/ Hash firewall. The difference in length is on the seal surface of crank not the thickness of the flange itself.

hud nut

Thanks for the reply. Dan

hudsontech

If you can find the engine number 1954 serial numbers (engine number the same) run 269060 thu 319720

Hudsonly,
Alex Burr
Memphis, TN

hud nut

The engine number is 5321039 found on the engine deck surface on the extention of the deck on the distributor side. The casting number is 5325000. The other numbers are L125. CWC is under the casting number These numbers are under the distributer. Thanks Dan

Ken U-Tx

Dan has a block cast on December 12, 1955. Would be from an early 1956 model year Hornet, if it wasn't a replacement or surplus motor.

hud nut

I would say it is a replacement as i took it out of a late 52 hornet sedan.

53jetman

It's not likely that a replacement engine would have a vin number stamped into the block

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