engine replacement

[ddart]

I intend to replace a dead 273 V8 engine with a new 360 crate motor in my 65 Dodge Dart. Any problems? Will it fit? bolt to trans? Can I use existing flywheel?
Any help would be appreciated.

[Swifster]

What trans do you have? A 904? I would think the flywheel should bolt up, but some crate motors come with the flywheel. If this one does, I'd use that one and get a torque converter to match. Is this the 380HP engine? If so, you might want to think about a SB 727 trans, as I don't think your 904 will live behind it for very long. You could also look into a used, low mileage, late model trans out of a Ram or Dakota. Good luck!

[ddart]

Thanks Tom:
I intend to buy the 300 hp engine. It doesn't come with the flywheel as far as I know. The trans is A 904 and I realize I may need a stronger one - the rear end may also be weak but I just intend to get a new engine (and a few more hp) in the car for reliability (for now).
Bill

[R Pope]

The 904 will work for a long time, some station wagons used them behind a 360. You'll have to take your torque converter to a transmission shop to have a 360 balance weight welded to it, otherwise it's a bolt-in. There isn't really a flywheel, just a flex plate, the 273 one will work.

[ddart]

Thanks for the info.
Rather than weld weights onto the flex plate, I purchased a flex plate that is already weighted correctly for the crate engine (from B&M). Also required is a small bushing at the crank shaft and the torque converter.
The engine is in the car and will probably be running next week.
Most people think the 904 trans will work, but recommend that I beef up the rear end (it is now a 7 1/4). I have an 8 1/4 which will probably be fitted in the fall.