1951 chevy truck trouble-Please help Im in trouble

[kayakerinmo]

I have a '51 chevy with the 216 engine. I left the gas in this truck for over 1.5 years due to family troubles. I started it sat. and the push rods all bent, and the arms on the top, I believe the tree bent also. I have since drained all the gas and have begun assessing the damages. I was wondering if anyone has run into this problem or similar and what they had to do. Please help me I am in way over my head.
thanks

[hom3gr0wn]

sounds like the pushrods rusted over in the heads after 1.5yrs everything was probably stuck, if your lucky all youll need to do is rebuild the heads.

[leveldowen]

I would suggest getting a Chiltons manual for the engine. I believe they make one for the chevy inliners. Read it front to back, and it will give you some good basic knowledge on where to start, and will make you feel much more comfortable taking on the project. If you still don't feel comfortable after that, you might consider hiring a professional, or a friend who knows what hes doing. Remember, a basic rebuild is about 50% Wallet, 25% confidence, and 25% tools. Anyone can do it, you just have to convince yourself that you can.

[Malibob]

In my opinion I would start looking for a 235 or a later model straight 6. I would think they are pretty reasonable to pick up.
In '51 the 216 had a splash oiling system and it sucked, wherever oil did not get to was susceptable to weat. Probably a big reason you are having the troubles you are right now. I had a '51 coupe and put a 235 in it which had a much better oiling system from the factory. It made a world of difference.

[DagoFast]

I would agree with the valves being stuck and causing the push rods to bend. If it were me, I would remove the heads and take them to a machine shop to get re conditioned and buy new push rods. Start the truck at least once a month and let it warm up just to keep everything lubed.

[00RCSB]

dont redo the 216, they are not worth it, just find a used 235,250, or 292 with bearing rods