I've got a 1948 Streamliner with the original straight 6 239. It doesn't run currently, but will. It will run for a bit when gas has been poured in the carb, but dies once that runs out. Makes me think its a fuel delivery issue, so not a huge deal to fix. I'm sure with some work this engine can be turned into a runner. My question is this - knowing that i want to drive this car daily throughout the summer, and take it one select road trips with the family, do I keep the 239, or swap in something a little newer with greater parts availability - like a 250? I don't currently want to go through the process of clipping the front end, etc., and would like to stay away from a V8 (everybody's done it). I can convince myself to go either way, so I'm now looking for some real world advice as to what is a better option to make this car a daily driver.
Thanks,
-Blake.
long stroke said
Oct 21, 2014
Blake, as sweet a motor as a 250 Chevy inliner is. Rebuild the original flat head inliner engine. I like your thinking on staying away from belly button engines. As great as a V-8 is, the inline six can deliver power and economy. Your marching to your own band, not everybody else's. My vote is to keep her original and keep that inline flat head. Cheers George.
427carl said
Oct 21, 2014
Or slip in a 396 with big cam and coated headers and 4:11 gears
Indian said
Oct 21, 2014
Rebuild the original motor
Fitz said
Oct 22, 2014
I'm a fan of those engine, keep it. And as you've said, «...V8 everybody's done it», and how much keep those flat head? Today it's a better attracting engine than the too popular V8
They are reliable and strong.
Fix your fuel issue, look everywhere around it, fix everything you see that can need maintenance (distributor advance also) and it will fire every time. You can keep your 6 volts if already there, it's can be reliable too on a long run if well maintained.
My advise before running it on a long run, remove the pan and clean everything inside.
Fitz.
50sedandelivery said
Dec 13, 2014
I,too, agree that the 239 should be respected as your workhorse. Parts are available and nice original rides are getting less and less common.
Stick with us flathead boys! Don't listen to the Big Block Bullies!
dualquadpete said
Dec 14, 2014
I'll just get my self in trouble here on this one!!!! Your car, your choice!!! If a lot of miles put on in the season like I do, & long road trips [Like I do} Well!!!!?????
CdnGMfan said
Dec 17, 2014
Swap in a Pontiac straight eight
Beaumont4008 said
Dec 17, 2014
Dare to be evan more different ? How about a 60's pontiac over head cam 4.1 L (250 cu.inch) six. Now that would be cool. That would be 215 hp with the auto engine and 230 hp with the standard trans engine.
Good day.
I've got a 1948 Streamliner with the original straight 6 239. It doesn't run currently, but will. It will run for a bit when gas has been poured in the carb, but dies once that runs out. Makes me think its a fuel delivery issue, so not a huge deal to fix. I'm sure with some work this engine can be turned into a runner. My question is this - knowing that i want to drive this car daily throughout the summer, and take it one select road trips with the family, do I keep the 239, or swap in something a little newer with greater parts availability - like a 250? I don't currently want to go through the process of clipping the front end, etc., and would like to stay away from a V8 (everybody's done it). I can convince myself to go either way, so I'm now looking for some real world advice as to what is a better option to make this car a daily driver.
Thanks,
-Blake.
Blake, as sweet a motor as a 250 Chevy inliner is. Rebuild the original flat head inliner engine. I like your thinking on staying away from belly button engines. As great as a V-8 is, the inline six can deliver power and economy. Your marching to your own band, not everybody else's. My vote is to keep her original and keep that inline flat head. Cheers George.
Or slip in a 396 with big cam and coated headers and 4:11 gears
I'm a fan of those engine, keep it. And as you've said, «...V8 everybody's done it», and how much keep those flat head? Today it's a better attracting engine than the too popular V8
They are reliable and strong.
Fix your fuel issue, look everywhere around it, fix everything you see that can need maintenance (distributor advance also) and it will fire every time. You can keep your 6 volts if already there, it's can be reliable too on a long run if well maintained.
My advise before running it on a long run, remove the pan and clean everything inside.
Fitz.
Stick with us flathead boys! Don't listen to the Big Block Bullies!
Swap in a Pontiac straight eight
Dare to be evan more different ? How about a 60's pontiac over head cam 4.1 L (250 cu.inch) six. Now that would be cool. That would be 215 hp with the auto engine and 230 hp with the standard trans engine.
Ian