Slant six transplant ‘64 Barracuda

Greetings All,

Just purchasing a 64 Barracuda project car. Originally was a V8 car with PB automatic, both of which are now gone; as is the driveshaft. For my needs, a newer (early to mid 1970s) 225 slant six and 904 combination would seem to be easy to find, do the job I need it to do, and looks to be cost effective.

A few questions Mopar “nubby” questions (I probably know just enough to be dangerous). What transmission mount and cross member would I need for a newer, slip yoke style 904? Early or Late A body? Something else? Anything more specific? Modes necessary? If so, how difficult? I understand a cable kit is available to “marry” a newer 904 to the push button shifter; not sure if I want to spend the money/open that can of worms … or just track down the plastic 3 speed cover overlay for the dash and jerk the button/cable assembly in favor of an aftermarket floor shifter. Anybody have experience/opinions about the Imperial kit? Not sure what axle is in the car, but I a very sure it’s original (car still has 13” wheels). Assuming a ‘64 Barracuda with a 225/904 would not have had the same ratio as a V8/904 car? Also, will a Duster driveshaft work between the a 904 yoke and the existing axle in the car or am I looking at a rear end swap, or custom driveshaft?

If memory serves, I need an early A body engine oil pan and I can slide the six into the existing V8 K member? I seem to recall there was one other, newer oil pan that would also work with some slight hammer “modifications? If so, what cars had that pan?

Yes, I understand that just tracking down another 273, early 904, and associated parts would be the simplest, cleanest way to go … and that has not been completely ruled out … but let’s please keep the thinking to the six cylinder swap rather than “selling” the original V8 ideas. I am really just looking for some insight on what would be involved in the six swap so I can weigh “plan A” vs. plan B” with a solid parts list.

Thanks!