I don’t know how I missed this thread till now. Neat project with a history.
Like some others I like your potential choice of using the 283, it’s an engine that is often overlooked these days, but still a really good engine for the displacement and perfect for a hotrod.
The 283 also peaks my interest in part because I am currently building a pretty much mid 60’s era correct 283 hotrod engine (in part to start teaching my grandson about engine building). Rather than muddy up your thread with my engine build, here’s a link to the motor I’m building if you’re interested…..
http://www.clubhotrod.com/chevy-small-b ... build.html
Have you settled on what you're doing for headers/manifolds on the 283? I just picked up a pair of the Dorman Repop 2 1/2" outlet Corvette rams horns, not bad for the price but they do require a bit of casting flash cleanup.
I’ve had both the T5s and A833 (OD) and am still currently running the Chrysler version of the 833 in my 57 Plymouth (behind a first gen Hemi with a 4.10 gears). For what it’s worth here are my thoughts.
The 833 is far stronger than the T5, but as you mentioned either should live behind the 283 but you will never have to worry about breaking the 833.
Having only 4 gears instead of five you will notice the gear split between 2nd and 3rd on the 833. With the vehicle weight and 3.73 gears, normal everyday driving won’t be a problem or even very noticeable …..where you will notice the split is in a race type situation.
For me the difference I noticed most between the 833 and T5 is the “feel” when shifting thru the gears. The 833s are 60’s technology and feel like it when you go thru the gears, the shift throws are longer and a little more effort is required to engage the gears. That being said I grew up rowing thru gears on Muncies, Top Loaders, 833s and Saginaws and love that feel on an older car or hot rod.
Anyway thanks for posting your build, it will be interesting to follow.
