I need a measurement from bottom of k-member to top of valve covers...

[bull]

I'm trying to figure out if I can install my engine from below without a hoist so I need to know the distance from the bottom of the k-member to the highest point on a 383 without a carb or intake (I'm sure 440 is probably about the same). What I'm thinking of doing is raising the car up off the floor far enough to roll the k-member/engine assembly under it on a short dolly and then raise it into position with a cherry picker. This measurement will help me determine the height of the dolly and the distance the car needs to be off the floor. The jack stands I have go to 24" when fully extended and the point of contact would be the frame rails below the firewall area. At that point I believe the clearance under the front would actually be more than 24" according to some rough estimates I've done already.

Thanks.

Here's a stolen picture for reference...

[b5blue]

Bull I just checked my 70 with a 440, 21 inches, from the center of the K frame to the bottom of the valve cover. Neal

[bull]

It's going to be close.

[b5blue]

Isn't that how the factory did it? (Of course much higher for them)

[keepat]

Bull,
I put the back wheels up on some 8" wood block and I used a small motorcycles lift with some wood block under the radiator support to jack the car up just high enough that the intake cleared the wheel well. I also used my engine lift base to hold the K frame, motor, & trans.
Pat

[bull]

Thanks, Pat. That's very similar to what I was thinking of doing except I was hoping to jack up all four corners of the car at once. Do you remember how much clearance you needed to scoot the engine underneath?

[keepat]

It was about 38" to the valve cover, sorry I didn't note exact the height at the time.
Pat

[bull]

Thanks.

[Rolling_Thunder]

       just remove the rear tires and put some jack stands just ahead of the leaf spring perch...    use a large "C" clamp on the framerail to prevent sliding - then your car is not on a fulcrum...     lift the front and and slide the engine/trans under the front and slowly lower it down. 

[bull]

Fulcrum? Jeez, dude, don't be using $5 words at this hour.