by SDEconoTruck Thu Dec 27, 2012 12:26 am
Looks like you got a Spring Special, good one!
I've worked on a lot of 200's and a couple 170's. They are
almost identical blocks and many parts interchange. Basically
the 200 is a bored and stroked version of the 170. To tell
exactly, check the engine block below the exhaust manifold, if
you see 5 Freeze Plugs, then it's most likely a 200 cu in.
The 200 is desirable. It has the upgraded 7 main bearings which
is more durable and reduces the torsional harmonic issues of the
earlier 144 and 170. Basically all three versions are of the same
family of straight 6, the "third generation" that is considered
the "small block straight 6."
There was one other small block, the 250 but it is less common, though
it can connect to small block V8 transmissions, which have overdrive
and other nice options.
The 240 is a beast, and the block/head are totally different from
the 200. The 240 is related to the 300 both of which are
considered "big block straight 6's." This motor does better with a
more beefed up transmission, drive line, and axle than you probably have.
It also will need an under engine mounting bar (belly bar) rather
than the inferior "arms" of the '63. I have had two failures
of the motor mounts and I can see the flex starting on one of
my engine support arms. Looks like the body metal is puckered
a bit in that area as well. My plan is to upgrade to the cross
brace as I am installing a "modified" 250.
So, that said, your engine support arms will barely manage the
200 if you modify it with any power adders and like "spirited"
driving.
(that air cleaner is nice because you get cooler air with it, but
it is not period-correct. Cool air gives better performance.)
Personally I would run with it, maybe have a 200 oil bath cleaner
as a spare for display only.
It is very easy to paint the 200 up to look like a 170, yet the
performance is quite nice.
Hope this helps,
George