1977 440 into 1965 Dodge Polara

[Catfish-65]

I have located a strong running 1977 440 engine and trans and would like some input. I would like to replace my 318 poly-727 auto in my 65 Polara Convertible, with some more power. My 318 is a healthy runner, but I want a boost.. Are there any obvious problems or impossibilities that I could encounter. Change will require total new exhaust, etc,, not a problem,, Can I buy new mounts where needed,, Any knowledge would be appreciated,, Dave

 

[CBODY67]

The style of motor mount changed in later years. Your's should have the "normal" for back then motor mount. Somewhere in the '70s, they went to a "spool" type mount, which might have some different mounting lugs on the block than what the '65 B/RB engines had. Something to verify and check out. I believe the two systems can be interfaced, though?

Check out the trans tailshaft housing length and type of mount, too. Could also be some underhood wiring harness alterations needed, too?

Might need to get the fan and fan shroud, too. Even the radiator for good measure?

Not sure if your ultimate power from the engine might exceed the capabilities of the '65 rear axle's design? Last year for the rear "hub" rather than a one-piece axle shaft, diff to wheel, as we're now used to looking at.

Might take a little more to get it to "drop in" than initially suspected, even if was replacing a 413 rather than an A-318.

Just some thoughts,
CBODY67

 

[65Fury440]

This is the style you will need
'65 C-Body Original B/RB Products

 

[65sporty]

This is the style you will need
'65 C-Body Original B/RB Products

Those look like the block needs the mounting holes in the front of the block, I didn't think the 77 block would have them. I thought Schumacher had mounts to put any year B/RB into the 65

 

[mr. fix it]

The 65 had a year specific stub frame for the 318 poly or the BB's so this may be an issue unless you are good at welding in a new engine mount location on the driver side if I recall correctly...

This changed in 66

 

[Polara_500]

The 65 had a year specific stub frame for the 318 poly or the BB's so this may be an issue unless you are good at welding in a new engine mount location on the driver side if I recall correctly...

This changed in 66

I'd hesitate to state that's an absolute, it appears to be a Canadian Polara and I'm not at all sure how much/little they messed with them vs the American version.

On a 65 Polara (American version) it will absolutely need either a block with the specific front mount holes and appropriate bracket or as was mentioned, Schumacker's was offering a conversion mount.
Here's a photo showing the extra holes required.

 

[MrMoparCHP]

Also aren't the 65's cable shift transmissions?
If so you'll need a 65 big block transmission.


Alan

 

[Polara_500]

Also aren't the 65's cable shift transmissions?
If so you'll need a 65 big block transmission.


Alan

True dat.

 

[CBODY67]

Not knowing how the '65 cable shift linkage works, but can the cable location and cable end be made to interface with the existing linkage on the '77 trans, similar to how GM did it on console shift cars (which were cable operated)? Just curious.

All things considered, might be better to upgrade the poly Canadian 318 with an intake, 4bbl, cam, headers, and a good undercar exhaust system?

 

[Catfish-65]

Thanks to all above,, Lots for me to take in.. I welded most of my life so structural mods not an issue,, Thanks again,,, Dave

 

[mr. fix it]

I'd hesitate to state that's an absolute, it appears to be a Canadian Polara and I'm not at all sure how much/little they messed with them vs the American version.

On a 65 Polara (American version) it will absolutely need either a block with the specific front mount holes and appropriate bracket or as was mentioned, Schumacker's was offering a conversion mount.
Here's a photo showing the extra holes required.
View attachment 195335

The Cdn built Polara's from the research I have done had the Plymouth fury stub frame and rear springs which changed a lot of what to ask for when trying to get major parts if hunting in the USA for replacement parts if you have a Cdn built Polara.
I replaced my stub frame & rear frame rails & in both cases had to go on the hunt for longer torsion bars & then for the rear drill and relocate the front spring perches so my shorter Fury springs would still work.

I have heard of the adapter mount as well.
If that's the way to go to make your dream come true then go for it if it makes life easier for the swap

 

[Scotish]

You will need a '65 Big Block cable shift trans for sure for the swap (not anything at all like a GM as the cable connections are internal). '65 is a one year only trans BTW. Does your '77 block have motor mount bosses that could be drilled & tapped like Polara_500 pointed out ? The rest should be pretty easy. You may have to extend some wiring like the distributor, ignition coil, etc. (rear distributor to front distributor).

 

[65Fury440]

Those look like the block needs the mounting holes in the front of the block, I didn't think the 77 block would have them. I thought Schumacher had mounts to put any year B/RB into the 65

They do have a mount that you have to drill and tap the oil pump bosses.
My block is a 76 and it does have the proper bosses on it, my 67 block does not.
I'd like to know the reasoning as well.

 

[Snotty]

Just my opinion, but don't do it! Everybody has a 440. Keep your poly motor and be rare and special at the next car show.

 

[65Fury440]

Just my opinion, but don't do it! Everybody has a 440. Keep your poly motor and be rare and special at the next car show.

Agreed, a poly build would draw any Mopar guys attention.

 

[Fratzog]

Do what I did and get a 2nd car with the BB if you really want it. Agree with above that you shouldn't change out original 318.

 

[Snotty]

They can look really cool!!! This was in a '65 or 6 Plymouth:

 

[Catfish-65]

Thanks for Input,, I am leaning towards leaving it alone and adding a few things,, It really is a solid reliable Car,, Sometimes you need to go through the Process.. Thanks Again,,,, Dave

 

[commando1]

I am leaning towards leaving it alone Sometimes you need to go through the Process..

 

[moper]

It's a lot because of the transmission situation. The mounts and oil pan are not really a big deal. But you'd definitely need the 1-year-only transmission. Not impossible to find but costly even for a core. You can get more power with some bolt ons, and if you want more, change the gears in the rear axle to something more suited for acceleration.