I am going to install a 302 into my 56 soon. I am going to retain the stock steering, suspension and front axle for now. Might install a drop axle later. Might do power steering upgrade later. Looks like my best choices so far are #1 SUMMIT #4849 made by Transdapt. It is the cross member style. Seems like it would be easier to offset the engine toward the passenger side for steering and exhaust clearance. Should lend some additional support since the Y block cross member was removed. Worried about interference if I need to drop the oil pan. #2 SUMMIT #4145. I just can't visualize based on the picture how that will mount to my motor unless I already have, or buy additional parts. Doesn't seem like making an offset toward passenger side would be an option. What have you guys done? Any dialogue would be appreciated. Pictures even better. I want to get off of this friggin computer and get to work! Thanks

 

I have no experience with the 4849 mount, but I've used the 4145 mount twice.

The 4145 works well, but I think it being listed for the 53-56 (and up) trucks is not accurate - it's not a bolt in and required modification. I used the Tras0-Dapt 4145 in a '51 years ago with a 351W/C6 and it worked beautifully. I just did my '54 and put a 302/AOD in and used the 4145...guess what, it doesn't quite work. The '53-56 frame is significantly wider than the earlier frames. I ended up extending the motor mounts with channel and reinforcing the frame around the frame pieces.

I used a Trans-Dapt 4156 for the trans on both the '51 and '54 and it works a treat - I cannot stress enough to use good bolts and locking mechanism (lock washers, lock nuts, loctite, or D - all of the above). On my '51, I actually lost a nut and the other one was coming loose, but I discovered it before it fell out. I suppose you could trim the crossmember to fit inside the frame rails (as it comes it's a tiny bit wide) and eliminate that, but it makes it more of a hassle to get in/out for trans/engine removal.

Also, it may not be an issue if you've removed the crossmember, but I didn't - I just notched mine to retain as much structural rigidity in the ladder frame. So, when putting in engine/trans assembly, save yourself some effort and pull the floorpan. Without the crossmembert, it probably won't be an issue though.

The other thing I dislike about the 4145 style is the biscuit mounts allow too much engine movement. I'm replacing the rubber mounts with urethane mounts soon in an effort to minimize this. The 4849 mount would probably be better in this regard.

 

Thanks for the info Flat Ernie. I had to remove my y block cross member so was thinking the tubular cross member motor mount couldn't hurt. Did find some posts during a search that spoke of interference issues with the cross member style. Would sure like to hear from someone who has successfully used the cross member.

 

I always want to be able to pull the oil pan without pulling the engine. In truth, there isn't a reason to do this frequently enough that it should be a constricting concern - but that's my opinion. I still try to be able to get the pan off, but if not, I don't worry too much about it anymore...

I don't know if the 4849 mount will let you do that or not...hope someone can give you some first-hand experience.

 

I'm looking at something like this not sure if its overkill

 

It appears my decision has been made for me. Saw somewhere that someone was talking about their 302 motor mounting locations were offset on the block. Went out and measured my 302 roller motor and they are offset. So cross member type won't work. Thanks for all of the input. It's sometimes the difference between doing and just wondering.

 

Crossmember WILL work , the rubber ford mounts will be off set and when bolted to the motor it puts the mounting holes in line with each other ! .

 

Hey Scott, Thanks for the info. I really want to use the cross member type. Is that what you are using or have used? Any interference issues with the oil pan or exhaust? So far with multiple posts on several locations I have not found a person with a similar set up to mine who has used the cross member style.

 

When I bought my truck it had a crossmember mount and was fine for years with a stock axle and steering. Over twenty ago years I put in a Volare style front end, otherwise I am sure I would still be using the crossmember.