Expert: Kevin Pilotte - 1/13/2007

Question
Hey, I have a '66 Rambler Classic 770, and there is a lot wrong with the engine. I've got quite a bit of blowby coming out of the engine itself and plenty of leakage from the block. I was wondering what is the largest engine i could have put into the car without it causing a ton of problems for the mechanic. At this point I'd rather replace the engine than have to spend a ton on machining it and resleeving the cylinders. it is a 232 3-speed straight-6 automatic.

Answer
Taylor,
As the saying goes, how much money do you want to spend?
You can have a V-8 installed, but you've got to have a mechanic that knows what he's doing, and $$$. A more practical option would be install a later model 258 six from an AMC or Jeep. It's basically the same engine design. You can get one with a 2 barrel carburetor. It's not a high performance engine, but can be modified to produce respectable horsepower. With your transmission, you shouldn't install a high performance engine, it could not handle the power.
You should be able to pick up a 258 cheap at a salvage yard.
Be sure to have the engine thoroughly inspected before buying it. Good luck.