Original 318 vs.

[reallylongnickname]

I have original 318 in 68 w300. I think a 440 is direct bolt on if I replaced the 318. It runs but may need a rebuild soon. Gotta test the compression. Anyway, Q is it more valuable to keep with the original 318 or slap wn other motor in it?

[Hobcobble]

Is all the rest of the truck stone stock original?
A 440 will fit in your W300, but it will need its
own hydraulic bell housing, flywheel, clutch/pressure
plate and starter. Those are some relatively difficult
parts to come by and, when you do, they're a bit
expensive. The 318 radiator would probably have
to be replaced with something large enough to keep
a big block cool too. One other item..... the
oil pan would need to be a front sump style. I'm
not positive.... but a Sweptline era 383 pan might
bolt in.... along with the corresponding sump.

John

[reallylongnickname]

Outer-roof and rear of cab are the only none original parts. So is there a more preferable motor replacement orher than 440?

[dodgeboykim]

318 is the easiest to replace. 360 requires a specially re balanced flywheel to work. What are your goals with truck

[reallylongnickname]

The only real goal is a great restoration job. The 318, I haven't checked compression, but it was easy to turn by hand when I oiled the cylinders, so although the mileage is low, it may need a rebuild. By the sounds of it, its easier to rebuild the 318 if necessary. I'm more of a hobbyist than actually knowledge from experience like you guys, but I can hold my own in some respect.

[WD]

Keep the 318.

Weiand 8007 intake, small 4bbl, rv cam, ignition conversion (mine is going GM style hei)... You might see 300hp at the flywheel, but the torque curve will be diesel steady.

And dusting a big block or overbuilt other brands smallblock with “just a pukey little 318”... worth every penny spent.

[ozzie]

I have a 318 in my W200 bored 30 over, with an Edelbrock Streetmaster intake, and a 1406 Performer carb. don't know what kind of horse's it makes, but runs great. had the carb rebuilt two weeks ago, have a vacum leak I am trying to find. when I find it it should run like before, Great again.