Need Info on slant 6 to V8 swap

johnmucci said
Hi, I just picked up another 66 dodge dart gt. this one had a slant 6 w/ power steering. I have a 273 hi po I want to put in. Here are my questions:

1. Do I have to change the K member? I hear you can buy a motor mount kit from Schumacher instead?

No. Use stock mounts up to 1972. The 73+ mounts are not compatible with the earlier k-frames

johnmucci said
2. Do I need to change the torsion bars?

If the /6 is a 225, maybe. If the /6 is a 170, definitely. The 225 with A/C used the same bars as the V8 w/o A/C. The engine weight is only about 50 lbs different. The 170 used a shorter block that is noticably lighter than the 225.

johnmucci said
3. It has 9" brakes, what do I need to change to 10" drum?

Need to swap spindles. FWIW: In the course of studying for the resto of my first 66, I read that all '66 V8s had 10" drums as standard equipment. I'm a big fan of being able to stop on cue. The cheapest upgrade I can think of is to use the 9" drums from a 71 or 72. These radially drums were heavier which translates into being able to take a bit more abuse before fading. As I recall the 66 brake drums were finned around the circumference.

johnmucci said
4. Is the steering box the same as a V8, I want to send it to Steer & Gear to have it rebuilt cuz I found a floor shift column and want to make it auto/floor

Yes. You will need the dropped center link.

johnmucci said
5. Do I need to find a V8 PS Pump or will the 6cyl work?

The pump will work. The issue will be how to mount it. You'll need the V8 mounting brackets for your pump.

Good luck with the HiPo 273. It's a little soft on the low end, but it does nicely when wound up. I had the factory single exhaust on my HiPo car. Still miss the sound. It's that good.