Is the engine to trans bolt pattern the same?
I'll ask again, Is the engine to trans bolt pattern the same?
Also are there any other dimensional differences beyond the length of the crank ? motor mounts? Sounds like a can of worms to me
You are making this hard.
The block is the same. The mounting ears and bellhousing pattern and dowels are the same. The starter area is the same. The accessories all bolt on the same. The rear main seal retainer is different at the side seals, but you can use the common seal retainer in the older blocks. The freeze plugs in block and head are a different type 1962 and older, but it doesn’t change anything. They are a disc instead of a cup type.
Spend some time troubleshooting the 361 and see if you can fix it First.
