I can't help with the what will fit question but I would think any engine you may find is going to need at least some work. Your thoughts on getting your engine evaluated is a good start. There is a 29-31 Facebook page that seems to have a lot more activity than this site you might ask there for 29's that may be available. I do have 29 and 31 cars but the engines are installed.

One other thought is the 31 crankshaft is made for a ball bearing pilot bearing and the 29 transmission input shaft will be a different size. I did get around that once by making a custom bushing. You might also try searching our old site this must have come up before.

Dave

Thanks Dave, 

I am on the facebook 29-31 site. I got a lot of conflicting advice there. Funny thing is, they actually recommended I come here or solid answers. I have found some 29s out there but they are too far to travel. I am also very cautious of anything on facebook.The last thing I want is to travel 1000 miles only to find out they don't have what they said they had. I figured dealing with members here might be safer. 

I will search the archives as I try to free up this stuck 29. 

Rich

Another question is… If the 29 engine is rebuild able will the lifters and valve assembly from the 31 work in the 29. The 29 has had the head stripped of all parts. I have the valves but they are total junk. All the other parts are missing. 

The valves are different size in 29 compared to the 31. The lifters, rockers, shafts and push rods are the same. Push rod sockets and covers are different. The temp sender location and type are different, probably other differences. You may be able to swap the 29 head for the 31 but I don't know all the details. Seems like there is a thread on the old site with the info and it will make it seem simple? The August 1, 1932 Master Parts Price list I bought from The Filling Station has been very helpful. I myself am no engineer and try to stick with stock so I can use factory publications to help with problems.  

Dave

@stovebolt-6  I don't know how far it is from you but there is a complete engine plus a block on Marketplace. It is in Spencer TN for $200. The complete engine has a downdraft manifold but I can see the 1929 style temp sender in the picture. Someone who knows more than I do you;d look at the pictures and verify that the engine is a '29. The ad mentions other parts so it is likely left over from a street rod build. I don't know how to post a link here. The title of the ad is Parts-1929 Chevrolet.

Mike

@david-dunton Thanks Dave I will look at the old posts.

@35mike Thanks Mike, I will check it out. Its about 1100 miles. But for the right engine I am willing to travel.

@stovebolt-6 Maybe there is a Chat member who lives near there who would check it out for you. The picture looks like it was pulled out of a long parked car.

Mike

@35mike I looked fo rthe ad and i think i found it. The guy says the motor is a 1932 or 34. It looks like a 29 to me. I asked for a picture of the casting numbers to confirm.

Although I live on the other side of the country (SF Bay Area, CA), I have a rebuildable (I was told) '29 block, crank,  and some other parts in my back shed. 

You can have them for free, if you figure out how to get them.

Cheers, Dean 

@stovebolt-6 I hope it works out. Maybe you should check Facebook Marketplace in your area. Craigslist too.

Mike

@stovebolt-6 There is another engine on Facebook in IL. for $100. It has the 1929 style temp sender.

Search Chevy Inline-6, it is in Chadwick, IL.

Mike

I have two suggestions. One if you are a VCCA member run an ad in the G&D as many members do not participate on chat. Also you can post on the VCCA Club page on Facebbook.  Well make it three - be patient and check sources daily . The best scenario would be if you found someone hotrodding a restored car and selling the running gear. Usually they don't want a lot of money compared to the cost of rebuilding a used neglected engine. Rebuilding cost can vary but 5 thousand and more is not out of the question. I've seen complete drivelines engine to rear axle go for 1500-2500 . You might not need all the components but you could resell or keep some for spares. 

@steve-d Steve you are correct about sourcing good components from street rodders. I hate it when I see that being done but the parts can often help a restorer. Sometimes these sellers have unreasonable expectations with regard to pricing but I doubt that many of them turn down a reasonable offer.

Facebook Marketplace should be a good resource for a somewhat local connection. If you are patient, it will come.

Mike