Posted by Rob Sexton on October 14, 1997 at 00:11:17:
In Reply to: V-8 engine conversion for "53 M37 posted by Jim on September 28, 1997 at 11:01:40:
I'm the guy who wrote the article on converting an M-37 to a Dodge 318 for the May '94 "Power Wagon Advertiser." First, I recommend you get a copy of that magazine for $4. The address is: Power Wagon Advertiser, 3090 Benton Iowa Rd, Norway, IOWA 52318.
The smallblock 318 won't hook directly to the M-37 transmission because the input shaft is about an inch too short with a Dodge bellhousing. If you find a late '50s to early '60s Dodge truck with a wideblock 318 and standard trans, you can use the bellhousing, clutch, and transmission in your M-37 on a smallblock 318.
The secret to a successful 318 conversion is to get the timing chain case housing from a Dodge truck V-8, vintage mentioned above. That engine used a front center mount which bolted to the timing chain case. You can use that to fashion an easy, strong front mount to the original mounting tabs on the frame.
I didn't need a hydraulic clutch, but fashioned a mechanical linkage which is shown in the PWA article.
Rear mounts weren't fancy or difficult, either.
To install a 318 or 360 (the 340 is basically a hot rod engine), you won't need to cut or modify your M-37 except for the cover for the transmission.
The early Dodge truck manual boxes had PTO openings on both sides of the transmissions.
I found it easier to swap my PTO-driven winch for an electric one.
With a post-'68 smallblock Mopar you'll find it easy to add an alternator, electronic ignition, power steering, etc. and maintenance is a breeze with off-the-shelf parts.
You can email me if you need.