I finally have an engine trans combo I like, 351W, AOD, and would like to get it in the frame. Everything I have read about motor mount placement uses the cab as a reference for locating the engine. That would be just fine except the cab is sitting next to the chassis and I don't want to sit it on just to pull it off again while I finish the chassis. Does anybody have a measurement for locating the engine mount from the front of the frame, axle center line or whatever? I'm also trying to decide which mounts to use, tubular style or side mount. I'd like to get the engine positioned so I can finish the chassis, fuel and brake lines, exhaust, and so on without living under the truck.

Thanks,
Don

 

Make a template off your cab. I use 1/8 inch hard board. You will need one piece for the floor so that you can pick up the front cab mounting holes, another piece for the toeboard, and a third piece for the firewall. Once you have the pieces cut use Gorilla tape to attach them together. Set your template on your frame and now you have a representation of your cab that you can use to adjust your engine placement. Check out Paul Horton for your engine mounts Paul Horton's Welder Series

 

Another thought: while designing the placement of your engine in the frame, take into consideration if you are planning headers and power steering in the future. This will save you from having to move the engine later. I installed my 351w 15 1/2" (diagonal) from the center of the front cab mount hole to the stock motor mount. This gives good clearance. I moved the engine three times to accommodate the changes I didn't anticipate when I was at the same stage that your at. Originally I had the engine down real nice between the frame rails, front rocker cover about 3/4" from the cab (driver side). Then I wanted power steering. Then I wanted headers, then It ended up like this. The engine is situated dead center between the frame rails. I did move my rad out front 2". Here's a pic for you. My truck is a 49 f1 though. You didn't say what your truck is.

 

I'm running a 5.0/AOD in my 56. I used a tubular mount, have Toyota P/S, and block hugger headers. I have plenty of room all around. Let me know what you need for measurements. Good luck.

 

Grant, are my eyes deceiving me or is your engine rigid mounted? Pic looks like it.


EDIT - nevermind, I see the motor mount isolator now

 

Don, here is a setup I use often when installing a SBF/AOD combo. The foam mockup block is dimensionally accurate and provides mounting bolt locations for all items that would normally be attached to a long block. I am in El Cajon so if you get down this way and would like to borrow it for your project I would be happy to make it available.
BTW - the trans case is empty so the whole setup can easily be lifted with one hand.