Head Bolts
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From: Sudbury
Head Bolts
I am freshening up my 1951 Ford Flathead V8 - 8BA with a gasket change, plugs, wires, repaint etc. The engine ran fine before I started my project and the compression was good.
I note that some of the head bolts are marked "S" and some "H"....I am assuming with is a length designation, but would like to know the real answer.
Also, can I reuse these bolts or should I purchase new ones.
Thanks
Flipper 55
1951 F#
I note that some of the head bolts are marked "S" and some "H"....I am assuming with is a length designation, but would like to know the real answer.
Also, can I reuse these bolts or should I purchase new ones.
Thanks
Flipper 55
1951 F#
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Joined: Jul 2004
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From: NM
Original Ford bolts have no "S" or "H" markings that I've ever seen. Could be those are replacements. The originals were a tight thread spec, replacements may or may not be. Can you measure their lengths under the heads? I have a spare set I can compare to.
With the OEM bolts it isn't necessary to replace unless they are visibly stretched or corroded.
With the OEM bolts it isn't necessary to replace unless they are visibly stretched or corroded.
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From: Bothell & Silverdale, WA
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 27,287
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From: NM
Thread chasers are the proper way to clean out the holes in the block, without reducing the tight fit of the threads. A set of chasers is only about $10 for Made in the USA:
https://www.summitracing.com/parts/sum-900203
https://www.summitracing.com/parts/sum-900203
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Jun 2015
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From: Central Michigan
Well I probably spend too much time looking at these sites now that I am retired! Anyway I was just trying to tell you not to do that with a tap because that would be exactly what I would do with a engine. But while following threads about flathead Fords on The Hamb and Ford Barn I see how many of "them" caution not to run a regular tap down the stud holes on a flatty. Cuz I read that afterwards it can be hard to keep coolant from seeping up thru the threads. I've never even owned a flathead so definitively not a expert.....
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Fleet Mechanic
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From: Central Michigan
Here's one. you can look around and find lots more, these old Hot Rod guys appear??? to know flattys, You may want to look thru some more and see what is recommended for sealer, etc.
https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/...amber.1197917/
https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/...amber.1197917/
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Junior User
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From: Sudbury
I note that there are 14 - 2-5/8" bolts and 10 - 1-3/4" bolts (approx) per side. Would there be a diagram available to show where each different size of bolt is to be reinstalled back in the head/block?
I am embarrassed to say that I never keep track of the bolt locations when I was removing them....Rookie mistake!
Flipper55
I am embarrassed to say that I never keep track of the bolt locations when I was removing them....Rookie mistake!
Flipper55
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