V8 flathead resurrection advice

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Oct 5, 2011 | 11:36 PM

John - NNY

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V8 flathead resurrection advice

I recently bought a 1950 F-1 with a V8 flathead. The story I was told is that the engine was rebuild and run 10 years ago. It was parked behind the chicken coop for the last 10 years or so. The oil looks clean like new oil. Took the spark plugs out. Rusty on the outside and look new on the inside. So the story about a rebuilt engine might be true. I have added Marvel Mystery oil to the cylinders to help free up the engine. Took the carb off. Some rust on the inside of the intake. Choke was closed so no mice in the intake.
Do I need to pull the heads to check the condition of the cylinders? The carb is the wrong one. It has a Holley 94 for a 1939-1941 Ford. The carb has no vacuum port for the LoadOMatic distributor.
So, what is the best way to go? Find the right carb and stick with the LoadOmatic? Carb and fuel pump would need rebuild. Or, replace the carb, get a centrifugal distributor, and/or electric fuel pump? Are there inexpensive ways to improve a V8 flathead?
I have a somewhat limited budget.
John
NNY

Oct 6, 2011 | 09:42 AM

mtflat

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Joined: Oct 1999

Posts: 6,774

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From: Kalispell, MT

You need to talk to the flathead experts - you'll find them here:

Ford Flathead V8 .. 1932 thru 1953 • Index page

or here: The Ford Barn - Powered by vBulletin

Oct 6, 2011 | 10:41 AM

ALBUQ F-1

Fleet Owner

Joined: Jul 2004

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From: NM

If you are going to stay 6v, I would stay with points, personally. That will mean you fight condensers failing until you find a good one, but I hear too many problems with the electronics at 6v with a generator. You can go 12v and stay with a generator, but the real benefits come from a 12v alternator and electronic ignition. It's just a better system. Not "traditional", but it opens up a world of possibilities for fuel pumps and other accessories.

Before you tear the engine open, see how it's running check the compression, and see if the gaskets have dried out. Can't hurt to check the torque on the head bolts before filling it with water.