[pops57]

I'm rebuilding a 57 chevy 3100 pickup truck with the 235 engine. I was told recently that the engine is in bad condition. I wanted to restore this vehicle with the original engine. I need to know if its worth it to have this engine machined due to its condition or look for a engine that does not require the major rebuild. I have no idea what to do, rebuild or replace it with maybe a 261 or ? Someone else will do the rebuild on the 235 if it's worth it to keep. Is it hard to find this 235 engine in good running condition? Any advice, will be appreciated !!!!!

[matt167]

what makes the engine bad condition? a '57 235 uses full preassure oiling, and insert bearings, you can do a basic rebuild on it.. everything including a new cam is available, not just regrinds.

[pops57]

I was told that the engine is well worn,the cylinders need more than honing. Maybe +.020 - .030 bore. The crankshaft is going to need at least a .020 grind. So I guess that the motor will need all new pistons,rings,crankshaft and whatever else is needed...heads? Is it cheaper to find one already rebuilt? Tell me what you think. What would you recommend?

[matt167]

I doubt that you will find many rebuilt 235's unless you look for people V8 converting restored cars/ trucks.. you may find good runners tho..

I would just do the engine.. going .030 over is pretty much standard procedure on any rebuild and most cranks need at least .010 undersizing.. I would have the valves re faced and lap them in, put new valve springs in and call it good. you will have approx $2k in parts for the rebuild..

[Crosley]

Many 235 engines use shims on the crank main bearing caps for clearance setting... mine did

Truck 235 blocks may be solid lifter blocks only, not drilled for oil pressure for hydraulic lifters.

The last crankshaft for a 235 I found was ground .030 - .030 ..... the parts are out there... my block was .060 over bore

Patricks Vintage in Casa Grande AZ has parts

[dalesy]

You shouldn't panic about the engine. Boring .030 or even .060 is no problem.
Also getting the crank ground to what you need. All the parts are readily available. If you change cams, be sure to replace the lifters also. If you want to spend some additional bucks, a 261 is a bolt-in...blocks are identical.

[walterguise]

Don"t even think twice about rebuilding that 235. Just do it!!!!!!!!
And while you are at it, yu might go ahead and mill off a few
thousands off the head before doing the valve job. A little
extra compression is a good thing. If any one in your area does
any engine balanceing, consider doing that to your rotating
assembly. A Chevy 6 sure runs smooth if it is balanced.
Luck to you.