IML: Rebuilding / reinstalling a 392 hemi into a 1958

["Hugh, 58 Imperial" <imperial58@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

This message is directed at folks who have had the pleasure of rebuilding 
and reinstalling their 392 Hemi into a 57 or 58 Imperial.  (I suspect this 
is a short list but that's OK.)  Much as I appreciate the "I would think" 
stuff I think I need some hands on perspective at this point.

Let's say I want to rebuild my 58's engine and reinstall it into the car 
myself, with some assistance.  Which will be the more difficult and / or 
time consuming?  Rebuilding it and connecting to the transmission (also 
rebuilt) or reinstalling it into the car and connecting everything up.

I think I can do the lion's share of the rebuild as I've done the top end 
before when it was in the car, so outside would be easier.  (Cramped spaces, 
access, all of that.)  Reconnecting it to the transmission will be fun.  I 
do have access to a first class mechanic to supervise, the same guy who 
helped me five years ago and now he has a little more time.

I think putting the 'whale,' the nickname of the early Hemi, back into the 
car is going to be fraught with problems.  Space is tight to say the least.

Let me tell you what I am hoping for.  If I rebuild the engine essentially 
myself and reconnect it to the transmission, I may be able to persuade the 
trucking company owner to get his guys to do the reinstallation.  But what I 
need to know is how long it might take professionals to get it done.  They 
cannot allow my car to clog up one of their bays for a long time.  That's 
the problem they have right now.

I look forward to getting some information from those more experienced than 
me on these matters.

In passing, the link to "Rebuilding your Hemi" on the main web site does not 
work.  I'd sure like to read that, if possible.

Hugh
1958 Imperial
San Antonio, Texas. 



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