Replacing Studebaker engine w/American made engine?

Question

I am interested in purchasing an old Studebaker Sky Hawk and replacing the existing original engine with an American made engine. My husband advises against buying the car and replacing the engine because he said that it could be a nightmare. Is he correct or is this something do-able; we don't have a ton of money to put into engine work, but I want to make the car reliable and have parts available if repairs are needed.

Answer 1

Actually the Studebaker was also made in Canada.  In fact, all the '65 and '66 Studebakers with the Chevy Mc Kinnon engine (283). Since Studebaker was no longer producing cars in the USA duringn '65/'66 it could be argued that these Studebakers were imports.

I have a '64 Daytona (Lark) that oddly enough has the Canadian built 283. All the casting and even the air filter ans plugs are "Made in Canada."  Likely mine was either a warranty engine or a transplant later in life.  Anyway, a '64 Canadian Studebaker is somewhat rare in So. Cal.

Answer 2

Studebaker used small block chevys for the last couple of year before they went out of bussiness.You can't get much more available than that!
It wouldn't be to big of a job to swap a chevy v8 into your car.
You most likely can buy motor mounts and anything else you need from various studebaker vendors.
fyi Studebakers were made in south bend indiana.They are 100% american cars.

Answer 3

Studebakers are more American than most of the Made in Mexico Chevys.  Made in South Bend Indiana until 1964.  Fairborn Studebaker and the Studebaker Drivers Club can give you all the info you need.