American Motors: amc engine swap, small block chevy, amc rambler

Question
I have a 1961 AMC Rambler Classic with a 196.5 and auto trans, I would like to replace the engine with a newer V8 and also want to retain the push button trans. Can you advise me as to what engines if any would fit.  

Answer
John,
Technically, you could install most any V-8 engine. The question is, though, how much do you want to work at getting it to fit.
You could probably use a small block Chevy or an AMC V-8. You will, however, have to modify the crossmember, or actually install one that will work with your V-8. If you are talented and skillful, you could use a bare block V-8 and set it down into the engine bay to determine how much welding and modifying you would have to do to get it to fit.
It can be done, but it ain't going to be cheap. As for the transmission, I would not use your present tranny with any V-8. It is not strong enough.
Good luck.
Kevin