[Dragracertoo]

Looking for info in regards to installing high HP 65-76 Pontiac engines in early B Bodies prior to 1965. What years earlier than 1965 the chassis should be avoided. Wagons are preferred.
Thanks, Rich

[Goatracer1]

1961 through 1964 would be the easiest, The later engines that have 2 or 5 motor mount bolt holes will bolt right in. 1959 and 1960 wouldn't be hard if you use a later trans. By making your own motor mounts, using a later trans and mixing parts any 1955 through 1958 will accept a later Pontiac engine. With the exception of the 1959 & 1960 I have done these swaps in my garage using hand tools and NO welding.

[sdbob]

I put a 65 421 in a 63 GP first with Borg Warner 4spd(broke 3 times)then 65 M40 (turbo hydramatic). Used 65 console and shifter. This was 1971 era. Fairly easy. Trans crossmember had to be adjusted. Very reliable then. 55 Pontiac with 1960 389 and 55 slant pan lot of learning with that combo,1969 era. Dont do it use later trans engine combo for 55 and up. That slant pan though with shift kit would just about knock the windows out of the car when really on it.

[Dragracertoo]

Thanks for responses, When was the last X-frame year?
Will use some kind of later transmission.

[Poncho60]

1960 was the last year for the x-frame

[77 TRASHCAN]

Originally Posted by Poncho60

1960 was the last year for the x-frame

Thank God!!!
Chevrolet stayed with the X frame till 64

[MarkS57]

Originally Posted by Dragracertoo

Looking for info in regards to installing high HP 65-76 Pontiac engines in early B Bodies prior to 1965. What years earlier than 1965 the chassis should be avoided. Wagons are preferred.
Thanks, Rich

I 2nd the 61-64's. I swear my 62 had a stiffer structure and more suspension compliance than the later cars. Or just better springs that kept their rates over time. Wagons are not as common of course but they do pop up from time to time.