331 Hemi and transmission

[Nordictom]

I am not really a hemi expert, but.......... a close friend passed away, and I am helping his wife sort through all of his parts. for now, she is interested in selling a, from what I can determine a 1954 331 hemi & transmission. I based this on the casting number on the intake manifold. I have a few photos, and it looks to be complete, due the fact that everything was cut (eg, exhaust manifolds) when it was removed from ? Tring to get an idea as to its value.

Any input would be appreciated

TIA

NT

[George]

Assuming it's a 4 bl engine it has a fairly rare intake. Probably around $1,500, less if it's a 2 bl long tail engine. Is tranny a stick or, more likely a 2 speed PowerFlite? The PF isn't worth much except to a restorer.

[Nordictom]

Thanks for the insight. I will pull the air cleaner and see what carb it has on it. I think it is a stick, but will need to confirm.

[George]

Look at the back of the block, if it looks like a modern engine back there it's a 4V engine, if it has a cast in extension, with a bottom fitting, it's the less desirable "long Tail" 2V engine. If so don't loose the lower piece.

[Nordictom]

Just following up, I have a few photos of the 331 hemi, but can't post them. It is a 4V with the auto trans.

[George]

The intake is a bit rare. '54 is the only wet 4V intakes made. Pricing should be a little less than the '55 331. Pecking order is 392, 354 is just a bit higher than the '55 331, then the rest of the long tail 331s drop off from there. The '54 heads are good, just with solid front so not as desirable as the open front '55-'56 heads.