Re: IML: Rebuilding / reinstalling a 392 hemi into a 1958

[randalpark@xxxxxxx]

A good friend and I installed the rebuilt 331 into one of my '55 
Imperials in 1999. I had paid a good shop to do the bottom end, and I 
did the top end myself. The transmission was still in the car, and we 
had no trouble. We rented a cherry picker and did the job in one day. 
The car was drivable the next day. I ended up giving that friend the 
car in exchange for more help on my other cars. He sold it years ago, 
and someone pointed out to me recently that this very 1955 Imperial is 
for sale on Craig's list.

Paul W.


-----Original Message-----
From: Hugh, 58 Imperial <imperial58@xxxxxxxxxxx>
To: mailing-list@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Sent: Thu, 20 Sep 2007 8:46 am
Subject: IML: Rebuilding / reinstalling a 392 hemi into a 1958


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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