223 Stroker: Fact or fiction?

[The Big M]

The small amount of info I've been able to gather on this subject suggests that installing a 262 crank in a 223 block is a monumental and expensive task.

My question is this: Has anyone actually ever attempted this swap, or is it just a myth? Secondly, what would be the benefit of a 223 stroker over a rebuilt 262? Is it just that 223 blocks are more readily available and 262 pistons are hard to find?

 

[63redtudor]

I think the monumental & expensive part is just simply finding a 262 to begin with. It was a truck only motor & untill '64 (supposedly some found their way into light trucks in '63) was a big truck only option.
Edwin

 

[The Big M]

Okay, let's say for the sake of argument that I had access to a running 262.

What then? Would it be a worthwhile endeavour? I'm really curious as to what sort of machine work is actually involved.

 

[manglass]

I haven't heard any direct information from anyone who has actually stroked a 223 (or attempted to). That said, if I had a running 262 I think I'd rebuild that. The resulting 240 c.i. or so that you'd get with the 262 crank in a 223 block would still be undersquare which isn't the ideal setup for developing RPM and horsepower. I have an old data sheet from Clifford that indicates it's possible and yields around 240 inches depending on the exact bore. I don't remember exactly which rods and pistons were used. Somewhere along the way, it was pointed out that there were some block clearance issues but that person didn't provide any details. If I had a 262 crankshaft, I'd probably try it. If I had a 262, I'd probably just rebuild it. I think the torque from a 262 would be impressive.

Lou

 

[The Big M]

Good point about the undersquare dimensions. I like that the 223 is just slightly oversquare. Although I'm not really expecting too much rpm potential. I'm more interested in torque since I have a truck.

 

[manglass]

Over the weekend, I dug up a little more information. The 223 & 262 take the same connecting rod and main bearings. So, barring any clearance issues, the 262 crankshaft should physically fit into the engine block. When I get a chance, I'll look at connecting rod length, piston compression height, and deck height.

Lou