1956 Corvette Engine Upgrade

[Donald D.]

II am looking to upgrading my 56' to one of the newer ZZX crate engines and preserve my original motor. Has anyone any experience with the 350-Ram Jet, the ZZ3-383, ZZ4-350 or ZZ5 350s? I was concerned about hood clearance and any other issues that anyone might have come across that I should be considering. Thanks for your replies.

[Bruce B.]

Re: 1956 Corvette Engine Upgrade

I put a Ramjet 350 in a 62 Corvette years ago.
Only issue's were hood and harmonic balancer clearance which were easily resolved.
Great engine.

[Terry D.]

Re: 1956 Corvette Engine Upgrade

Hopefully Tom Parsons will chime in, I believe he put a big small block in a 56

[Stuart F.]

Re: 1956 Corvette Engine Upgrade

As I recall, Tom took pains to make the new engine appear close to the original with some additional enhancements. It was a great swap.

Stu Fox

[John F.]

Re: 1956 Corvette Engine Upgrade

Don't forget the heavy duty "U" joints as well. Twisted the drive shaft back in 68 w/ a crate motor.

[Joe R.]

Re: 1956 Corvette Engine Upgrade

Hopefully Tom Parsons will chime in, I believe he put a big small block in a 56

Terry,

Yes, I'm pretty sure he put a 400 cubic inch small block in his 56, with a Rochester FI unit he modified for more airflow with the bigger engine. I think he also did some PCV plumbing in the lifter valley.

Joe

[Donald D.]

Re: 1956 Corvette Engine Upgrade

Thanks to all that responded to my request. have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!!!

[Donald D.]

Re: 1956 Corvette Engine Upgrade

Do you mind sharing any more that you had to do with your 62'. Thanks, Don

[Tom B.]

Re: 1956 Corvette Engine Upgrade

If you want the Rochester look in a modern Fuel Injection you might consider this.

Arizona Speed and Marine

[Donald D.]

Re: 1956 Corvette Engine Upgrade

Thanks for the lead.