B-Block exhaust manifold requirements?

[skyhawk61]

For those of you who have replaced the 318 engine in your '59 with a 361 or bigger block, is it necessary to use the center-dump exhaust manifolds that were original to the 59 361 engine? I have a complete 63 383 and transmission that I want to swap in, but this engine has the exhaust dumps to the rear. I know that some exhaust fabrication is required for this swap no matter what, but I'm unsure if the rear dump manifolds will fit without hitting something else in the engine compartment. (And, of course, I don't have access to a set of center-dump manifolds.)Thanks. Dennis

[Denver 59 Fin Convert]

Not an issue if you plan on redoing your exhaust system or at least the Head pipe part. I upgraded to a 1960 413 RB block in my convertible and had a brand new dual exhaust system fitted to it. So as long as you are going to do that it is not a problem.

I am using the 1960 413 cast iron exhaust manifolds (that came on the motor) that are rear dump style on the passenger side but the drivers side was a center dump style. I had no interference with any other parts .

John Q.

[skyhawk61]

Thanks for the info,John Q. I am planning to fit a new exhaust system to the b-block, but I was unsure if a rear dump manifold on the driver's side would clear everything. (firewall, power steering column, etc.) Did you upgrade your transmission to a 727 when you did the swap? Dennis

[Denver 59 Fin Convert]

I thought about a tranny upgrade but kept true to the Cable actuated Cast Iron TF, If it ever fails, I would probably put in a 1963 cast aluminum TF that has the same rear drum brake assembly pod but it still a cable actuated so my Push Buttons would still work.

But my Cast Iron shifts fine and shows no noise in driving at all.

John Q.