V8 gurus - Lend me your collective engine location knowledge!

[terrx]

It maybe wasn't a consideration then, but now the later engine with long water pump and late accessories would come in handy. As others pointed out you have more options with a later block & accessories, namely a PS pump location that's higher and closer to the crank. It gives more clearance from the frame and saginaw steering shaft.

Perhaps don't worry about the 1" offset for now. Mount it centered or whatever is needed for clearance and let the driveline be slightly off side to side. It's not going to wear anything out especially for the amount you're likely to drive it. Then watch for a late 5.7L to swap in and when you do, then move it to drivers side the 1" needed to line everything up. With AA engine mounts it's as easy as sliding it over a bolt hole.

 

[RWBeringer4x4]

It maybe wasn't a consideration then, but now the later engine with long water pump and late accessories would come in handy. As others pointed out you have more options with a later block & accessories, namely a PS pump location that's higher and closer to the crank. It gives more clearance from the frame and saginaw steering shaft.

Perhaps don't worry about the 1" offset for now. Mount it centered or whatever is needed for clearance and let the driveline be slightly off side to side. It's not going to wear anything out especially for the amount you're likely to drive it. Then watch for a late 5.7L to swap in and when you do, then move it to drivers side the 1" needed to line everything up. With AA engine mounts it's as easy as sliding it over a bolt hole.

Yep - sad part is I also have a long pump on the shelf - just didn't want to source new pullies and brackets. As you mentioned, the slight offset probably won't matter which is why I'm trying to make do with what I have.

That said - if this engine goes, a roller block/vortec/TBI goes in next, and the engine will move over that extra inch.

 

[Feistl]

Not sure if its been mentioned but another option is to run an electric (hydraulic) power steering pump. I am using an electric pump in my FJ40...

Pump was common on some model Astras, MR2, Vectra from the mid 2000s (Not sure if you get these in the USA, but they are very common in wrecking yards here in Australia. IIRC i paid around $50 for the pump and $30 for fittings. I do recommend a high amp alternator though (i have a 120amp unit)).