I have a '50 Ford F-5 short school bus and a 460 that's begging to be installed where the flat head now resides. Am I crazy to even be thinking this is reasonable, or do-able? Do I have to change trannys, or is there adapters available? Has anyone out there tried this??

 

My first question would be "What's wrong with the flathead?"

If you are concearned about highway crusing speeds, it is tranny and rear end more than the engine that will keep you a cool looking turtle.

If it is flathead parts and accessories, they are not TOO uncommon. However, they are not necessairly available over the counter in most places any more.

If it is about reliability, the engine isn't going to get you - it will be the 60 year old electric system degrading. However, a properly maintained 6v system is just as good as a 12v conversion.

If you are decide to ditch the flathead, send it my way!