Big Cadillac into 55-59 frame.

[a58chevy]

Anyone on here done this? Just like to know what it involves. I need new engine mounts anyways and this is something I've always thought about. I'm already planning on an auto swap as well.

I have seen some universal mount kits supposedly to adapt to chevy motor mounts. I was thinking maybe the new engine crossmembers they sell and this kit might work... just dreaming a little.

If anyone has input or pics I'd appreciate it!

[Colin B]

I have a caddy 500 that I'm planning on putting in my 51 suburban

[Lextech]

I have a 500 Caddy in my 54. I am using an Art Morrison front clip not the stock front clip. These are homemade mounts. The pictures are not that good but, it is all I have of the mounts.

[Colin B]

do you have any pictures of how you routed your steering?

[Lextech]

I will get some better pics of the mounts and of the steering tomorrow.

Jeff

[mr48chev]

I'd suggest hanging it in place and mounting the trans to the center crossmember where you want it before leveling the engine and building the front mounts. That would save the oops moment when you all of the sudden find out that the trans/bellhousing hits the firewall/floorboard because you built the front mounts too tall.
It isn't fair to ask me how I know this though.

[Bob@ProAuto]

I can't help with logistics and fitment, but one thing that I do know on the Caddy motors is that they create heat. The more airflow thru the engine compartment to blow out the hot air the better.

Doc Frohmader over at www.webrodder.com has done numerous stories and even has a book on the Caddy motors.

[1956cameo]

While I have never put a caddy motor into a 55-59 truck I do have this set up in my truck. I have a 1956 cameo truck with a 429 caddy engine in it. It appears that the transmission is a tubo 400 and it has also been converted to power steering. Some parts of the conversion looks like whoever did it knew what they were doing and other parts look like they rushed thru it. The back of the motor sits about 3-4 inches in front of the firewall and the stock radiator is still in place. The fan blade is about 2 inches behind the radiator. Overall it looks like they did a good job. Let me know what all you would like pictures of and I will try to post some for you this weekend.

[a58chevy]

56 Cameo if you can post some pics of how the motor mounts are set up that would be great.

Also have any of you tried using a later truck crossmember like a '75 into the truck frame? Apparently there's a universal cadillac mount kit that was designed for this year of crossmember. It might be the easiest way to.

[OrrieG]

Originally Posted by mr48chev

I'd suggest hanging it in place and mounting the trans to the center crossmember where you want it before leveling the engine and building the front mounts. That would save the oops moment when you all of the sudden find out that the trans/bellhousing hits the firewall/floorboard because you built the front mounts too tall.
It isn't fair to ask me how I know this though.

Good advice, I would only add that when you test set the engine put on the exhaust manifolds, other accessories and the radiator too to check for fit issues. Also make sure the oil pan will clear any suspension and cross frame parts.

[Lextech]

Here are a few more pics.

Jeff

[1956cameo]

Hey a58chevy, I will take some pics and post them on here for you. Unfortunately I dont have internet at home so it will be a few days but I will get them.

[1956cameo]

Sorry I didnt have time to post pics of the frame set up/ motor mounts. However here are pics of the 429 motor in the engine bay.






Post again if you want me to take pics of the rest of the set up. I would go ahead and do it but you only have 10 posts and alot of new members ask older members questions or request pics and then never log on again. I just dont want to roll around on the ground snapping pics unless I know you will actually see them and utilize the info.